In the late 1700's urn and willow images appeared on a growing number of slate gravestones. The urn and willow separately or together became the predominant images on slate and marble gravestones in the 1800's. Experts suggest that these images indicate a shift in emphasis away from the fate of the soul of the deceased (heaven or hell) and instead emphasize the mourning of those left behind.

William Sturgis was an important early 19th century marble gravestone carver on Cape Cod. He produced many urn & willow gravestones. He had a strong influence on several local Cape Cod gravestone carvers active in the 19th century. Many of the marble gravestones shown below are in the style of Sturgis and those he influenced.

Below are examples of slate and marble urn and willow gravestones. Note the transition from slate to marble as we proceed through the 19th century.