A Google search of "shell graves" produces many sites and numerous theories regarding the practice but in the end, there really is no credible explanation for them. In south Texas, the shell graves are most often found in communities settled by German immigrants, such as these graves in New Braunfels' Hortontown Cemetery.
Hier Ruht
(Here Rests)
MARIE
SOPHIE
KAROLINE
KRETZMEIER
Geb. Stolle
(nee Stolle)
GEB. IN
(Born in)
Bodenwerder
HANOVER
Nov. 27, 1823
GEST.
(Died)
Mai 6, 1897
In Dankbarer
und liebevoller
Erinnerung.
gewidmet von
den treuen gatten.
English Translation -
Thankfully and in loving memory.
Dedicated to the loyal spouse.
Fascinating!!
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