Whilst in Clonlea Graveyard, Kilkishen recently, I noticed at least 3 graves, which had a footing of turf neatly placed either on the grave or by the headstone.
I was unable to find anyone who had heard of this custom before or what it signifies.
(Apart from the usual suggestions of "an old sod", etc).
Anyone out there know anything of this custom?
Is it to be found elsewhere in Clare?
Mystery solved via Clare Roots Society
Can you tell Tom McDowell that the turf on that grave
is a once-off for an old man who was a turf-cutter in Kilkishen. His niece
feels that the turf is more appropriate than flowers in this case. He has
no other family and she honours and remembers him in this fashion. This is
per Michael McNamara.
Many thanks to all involved.
Tom McDowell
Graveyard decoration in Clonlea Graveyard, Kilkishen
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