Oldest Tombstone in America Traced to Belgian Origins

New research identifies the 1627 tombstone of an English knight in Jamestown, Virginia, as having been imported from Belgium.

The tombstone, dating back to 1627, was found in Jamestown, the first permanent English settlement in America.
Microfossil analysis revealed that the black limestone used for the tombstone likely originated in Belgium.
Historical records suggest the tombstone belonged to Sir George Yeardley, a colonial governor and early Jamestown settler.
The tombstone's intricate carvings and brass inlays indicate it was a high-status memorial, reflecting the wealth and connections of early colonists.
The findings highlight the extensive trade networks between Europe and colonial America, even during the harsh conditions of early settlement.