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Buried Together... But Why? The Cemetery Clue That Cracked a Family History Mystery
- Devon Noel Lee
- Jun 14
- 2 min read
Every genealogist runs into a family history mystery that just doesn’t make sense.
Why would two seemingly unrelated people be buried in the same cemetery plot? Why is Grandma buried hundreds of miles away from the rest of the family? If you’ve ever scratched your head at a confusing burial record, you’re not alone—and you might be closer to the answer than you think.
In one of my favorite Family History Fanatics webinars (available exclusively to Channel Members), we explore timeless cemetery research strategies that help you solve even the most perplexing family history puzzles.
Two Practical Tips to Solve Family History Mysteries in Cemeteries
Here are two practical tips for doing research in cemeteries that benefit all genealogists.
Tip 1: Use Cemetery Records Strategically
Before you visit a cemetery in person, do your homework online. Sites like Find a Grave and BillionGraves can give you a sneak peek at headstones, burial records, and even plot locations. Some cemeteries also maintain their own databases—with maps, unmarked burials, and internment notes that can help you connect the dots.
Don’t assume every cemetery is this organized, though. A quick phone call to the office can save you hours of guesswork and possibly uncover hidden records.
Tip #2: Use the FAN Principle to Map Relationships
When direct records come up short, the FAN principle (Friends, Associates, and Neighbors) can help. Take a closer look at who is buried nearby—
Are they neighbors from census records?
A sister-in-law you never knew about?
Or is the path of relationship a little more complex and needs a flow chart to map out?
You may discover that what seems like a random burial turns out to be a friend-of-the-family that explained everything.
Sometimes, those plot neighbors tell you more than the tombstones ever could. So dig deeper!
How Did I Crack a Cemetery Mystery Using These Principles?
As mentioned earlier, the webinar, "Why Two Unrelated Men Were Buried in the Same Plot," dives deep into this case study and shares step-by-step strategies for cemetery sleuthing. From reading burial patterns to navigating unmarked plots, these skills are essential for any genealogist.
Join the Family History Fanatics YouTube Channel Membership for just $2.99/month to watch this session and access dozens more exclusive webinars that help you untangle your family’s past with confidence.
👉 Join now and unlock a fresh perspective on cemetery clues and hidden connections.
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