Many families choose monuments with space for future inscriptions, and Gifford Monument Works specializes in adding names, dates, and text to existing monuments. Since 1936, we've provided final date engraving and inscription addition services throughout Oklahoma and Texas.
Final Date Engraving
The most common inscription addition is final date engraving (sometimes called "second date" or "death date"). When a monument is installed for a married couple, often only one spouse has passed. The surviving spouse's information is pre-engraved except for the final date, which is added later.
Our Process:
- You contact us when inscription addition is needed
- We schedule a cemetery visit to photograph the monument
- Our artists match the existing font, size, and spacing exactly
- We create a proof showing the new inscription
- After your approval, we engrave on-site at the cemetery
Timeline: Typically 2-4 weeks from initial contact to completion.
Additional Name Additions
Beyond final dates, we can add:
- Additional family members' names
- Married names after remarriage
- Nicknames or additional text
- New epitaphs or verses
- Military service information
- Decorative elements
Important Considerations
Space Requirements: The monument must have adequate space for new inscriptions. We'll evaluate this during our initial assessment.
Font Matching: We take great care to match existing fonts, sizes, and styles. With older monuments, we identify the closest match from our extensive font library.
Color Matching: If the original inscription is painted or highlighted, we'll match the color treatment.
Granite Type: Some granite types are easier to modify than others. Polished black granite is the easiest to add to, while rough-finish granites require more specialized techniques.
Pricing
Final date engraving and simple additions typically cost $150-$400 depending on:
- Amount of text to add
- Cemetery location and accessibility
- Granite type and finish
- Color treatment requirements
- Urgency of service
On-Site vs. Removal
Most inscription additions are completed on-site at the cemetery without removing the monument. This is more affordable and faster. Monument removal is only necessary for extensive modifications or when significant redesign is needed.
Contact Us for Inscription Services
Have a monument that needs additional engraving? Contact us at (580) 332-1271 or (972) 442-0702, or submit a consultation request online. We'll evaluate your monument, provide a detailed quote, and schedule the work at your convenience.
Ready to Get Started?
Our experienced team is here to guide you through every step of creating a beautiful, lasting memorial.
Serving Oklahoma and Texas families since 1936