Other methods of reading the stones include using very thin aluminum foil,
press onto and remove to read, also using a camcorder with light gathering
capabilities, zoom in real close.  You aren't supposed to do rubbings, use
colored chaulk or any substance. I have also heard to carry a spray bottle
of distilled water, a good wetting down makes those inscriptions pop out for
photos.

Janet Crain


----- Original Message -----
From: <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Sunday, June 26, 2005 4:24 PM
Subject: Re: Buried tombstone in tree stump


>I am not Mary, but I will answer. Shaving cream contains ingredients that
> can etch the stone or cause it to crumble. We had a discussion on the list
> many
> years ago about the best ways to read the tombstones, and especially for
> photographing them. The best suggestion that was tried and true and didn't
> harm
> the stone was to shine a flashlight or reflect the sunlight with a mirror
> across the stone while someone takes the photo.
> Julia French Wood
>
> In a message dated 6/26/2005 4:19:23 P.M. Central Daylight Time,
> [log in to unmask] writes:
>
> Mary,
>
> For those of us who are uninformed, please explain your  concern regarding
> the shaving cream.  I've seen headstones where the  engraving is very
> poor.
> I've always wondered what could be used to enhance  these headstones so we
> could get information from them.  Now is my  opportunity to find out.
>
> Thank  you,
>
> Chris.
>
>
>
>
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