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Patent Obscura
1901 E.C. Hodges Tombstump T-shirt
1901 E.C. Hodges Tombstump T-shirt
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$24.50 USD
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In the world of memorials, few designs have captured the essence of both nature and remembrance as beautifully as the work of Emery C. Hodges of Farmer City, Illinois. Patented in 1901, his tree-stump chair tombstone stands as a unique blend of symbolism and artistry—where the passage of time, the cycle of life, and the concept of eternal rest converge into a single, powerful monument.
A Monument Unlike Any Other
Hodges’ design is more than a gravestone; it is an invitation to reflect. Crafted to resemble a rustic chair made from carved tree stumps and branches, this monument embraces nature’s aesthetic while providing a deeply symbolic resting place. The key design features include:
Tree-stump bases, representing the enduring strength of life and the inevitable return to the earth.
Branch-like connectors, weaving together the structure much like memories interconnect through time.
A carved stone chair, which offers an empty seat—perhaps for the departed, or for those who visit, inviting contemplation and remembrance.
A Legacy Set in Stone
At the dawn of the 20th century, tombstone designs were typically rigid and utilitarian. Hodges broke from tradition, embracing organic forms to create something both functional and sentimental. His work reflects the Victorian fascination with nature symbolism, where trees, stumps, and vines often represented the fragility and continuity of life.
Forgotten Innovation, Rediscovered
Though his tree-stump chair tombstone never became a widespread trend, Hodges' vision lives on in the archives of lost inventions. Today, Hodges’ Eternal Stump Co. revives this unique memorial concept—bringing back the artistry and thoughtfulness of a bygone era to modern audiences.
Because a monument should not just mark a resting place—it should tell a story.
This t-shirt is everything you've dreamed of and more. It feels soft and lightweight, with the right amount of stretch. It's comfortable and flattering for all.
• 100% combed and ring-spun cotton (Heather colors contain polyester)
• Pre-shrunk fabric
• Side-seamed construction
• Shoulder-to-shoulder taping
• Blank product sourced from Nicaragua, Mexico, Honduras, or the US
This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!
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A Monument Unlike Any Other
Hodges’ design is more than a gravestone; it is an invitation to reflect. Crafted to resemble a rustic chair made from carved tree stumps and branches, this monument embraces nature’s aesthetic while providing a deeply symbolic resting place. The key design features include:
Tree-stump bases, representing the enduring strength of life and the inevitable return to the earth.
Branch-like connectors, weaving together the structure much like memories interconnect through time.
A carved stone chair, which offers an empty seat—perhaps for the departed, or for those who visit, inviting contemplation and remembrance.
A Legacy Set in Stone
At the dawn of the 20th century, tombstone designs were typically rigid and utilitarian. Hodges broke from tradition, embracing organic forms to create something both functional and sentimental. His work reflects the Victorian fascination with nature symbolism, where trees, stumps, and vines often represented the fragility and continuity of life.
Forgotten Innovation, Rediscovered
Though his tree-stump chair tombstone never became a widespread trend, Hodges' vision lives on in the archives of lost inventions. Today, Hodges’ Eternal Stump Co. revives this unique memorial concept—bringing back the artistry and thoughtfulness of a bygone era to modern audiences.
Because a monument should not just mark a resting place—it should tell a story.
This t-shirt is everything you've dreamed of and more. It feels soft and lightweight, with the right amount of stretch. It's comfortable and flattering for all.
• 100% combed and ring-spun cotton (Heather colors contain polyester)
• Pre-shrunk fabric
• Side-seamed construction
• Shoulder-to-shoulder taping
• Blank product sourced from Nicaragua, Mexico, Honduras, or the US
This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!
