Headstones in Charleston & the Lowcountry

Charleston's Magnolia Cemetery, its colonial churchyards and the Lowcountry's island cemeteries carry centuries of history. Gullah Geechee communities along the coast keep distinctive burial traditions, including decorating graves with personal items. Veterans may be buried at Beaufort National Cemetery.

Churchyards and historic cemeteries

Historic churchyards may have strict rules — or no new burials. Ask before you design, and consider a style in keeping with the setting.

Gullah Geechee traditions

Family cemeteries on the Sea Islands are often maintained by descendants. Follow the family's customs and the community's guidance.

Heat, sun and storms

Strong sun, heat and humidity favour polished granite, which holds its colour and resists staining; painted details may need touching up over time. In storm country, make sure the monument is properly pinned or set to the cemetery's specification. See granite for hot, sunny climates.

Salt air near the coast calls for dense, polished granite. See best headstones for coastal cemeteries.

Cemetery rules

In the United States, cemeteries are regulated state by state, and every cemetery — municipal, religious, nonprofit or private — sets its own rules on memorial sizes, materials, foundations and installation. Before you order:

• Ask the cemetery for its rules and fee schedule in writing (foundation, setting and any permit fees).
• Confirm who installs — cemetery staff or an approved monument company.
• Submit the design for approval before production.

Our cemetery headstone rules guide has a full checklist, and headstone setting fees explained covers the extra costs.

Veterans

Eligible veterans can receive a government headstone, marker or medallion, and families can also choose a private granite monument that includes service details. See veteran headstones and VA rules, the VA medallion and military inscriptions.

Factory-direct to Charleston

Marwaa Memorials manufactures in our own factory and delivers door-to-door across the USA under DAP terms, with freight, customs and duties included in the quote. Plan the design in our Design Studio, request a quote, or call our US team via the contact page. Read how DAP delivery works.

Local pages: our South Carolina headstone guide.