During a Sunday sermon, Root heard Reverend Sydney Crawford tell a parable about the good that came from woodmen clearing away the forest to build homes, communities and security for their families. Because this seemed the perfect symbol for Root's goal of clearing away financial burdens for families, he adopted the term Woodmen. To express that his fraternal society would be ever changing to keep up with the times, he added Modern. Finally, Root added of America to signify the society's patriotism and to honor our nation.

Modern Woodmen of America offered grave markers that families could purchase for deceased members of the society until the mid-1970s. The grave markers were 7½ by 20 inches, made of aluminum and designed so that a small American flag could be inserted and held by two loops on the back of the marker.

Written accounts and photographs document the popularity of tree stump monuments, engraved with Modern Woodmen symbols, even though the society did not supply these monuments or provide monetary assistance for them. Some of these markers are very simple, but others reflect the personal preferences and creativity of the stone-cutters which resulted in unique and varied designs that reflect the individualism of the members. Many of the "tree" monuments stand
4 to 5 feet high and show sawed or broken limbs traditionally symbolizing a life cut short. Not all tree stump monuments are for Woodmen of the World members; in fact, the majority of these monuments reflect the very popular late 19th century rustic style of decoration.

When founder Joseph C. Root wrote the ritual for Modern Woodmen, he also prepared a funeral ceremony for deceased members. The camp officiated services indoors, at the grave or both, according to the family's wishes. The ceremonies came to include hymns, remembrances and the dropping of flowers and evergreen sprigs over the casket. Today these ceremonies are often mentioned by presenters of cemetery walks and in lectures on funeral and burial practices of 19th and early 20th centuries.

For additional information, visit the Modern Woodmen of America website.