I thought this monument quite interesting since there was so much detail written on the stone.  It gives a good picture of the life of this family.  James Hall was born on the Isle of Wight in England, as was his son, George.  James was a plasterer and George followed in his father’s footsteps.  They eventually moved to Weston, West Virginia, to work on an asylum.

Evidently the wife and mother had passed on before this move to the United States.  In the 1870 census of Montgomery County James is listed as 55, a plasterer, born in England.  His son George was 21, same work and birth place.

In the 1880 census Mrs. James Hall is listed as head of household.  She was 40, born in New York, both parents born in Ireland.  She is listed as an astrologist.  I’ll have to admit I never thought to see that as an occupation during the 19th century in Kentucky!  James is 60, still a plasterer, born in England as was both parents.  George is not listed.  Perhaps he was married, or died young working for the fire company as noted on his gravestone.  James died in 1896, and Frances within two years.

James Hall, born on the Isle of Wight, England.  Was an ornamental plaster, worked on the London Palace and other public buildings.  Came to Weston, West Virginia, to work on the asylum, removed to Mt. Sterling, and from there to Lexington, Kentucky.  Died June 19, 1896.  Machpelah Cemetery, Montgomery County, Kentucky.

Frances, wife of James Hall and widow of Charles Jennings of Louisville, Kentucky.  Born in Troy, New York, came to Mt. Sterling 1870, moved to Lexington, Kentucky, 1892.  Died February 11, 1898.

George Hall, born on the Isle of Wight.  Emigrated to Canada with his father, and then went to Weston, West Virginia, to work on the asylum and came to Mt. Sterling with his father where he joined and was buried by the Fire Company.