You've probably seen these barcode-like squares called QR codes around. QR codes can be scanned with smartphone cameras and then it will open a link. These easy scan links are starting to trend in cemeteries to help memorialize friends and family who have departed.
#MemoriesForever
Companies like Digital Legacy make QR tags like the one pictured. When scanned the QR codes will bring up a web link that contains videos, photos, and information about the person buried there. This way visitors to the cemetery can see these digital memorials for years to come. Some headstone manufacturers may even integrate the QR codes directly on the headstone itself, though depending on the stone color, it may not be visible during rainy weather. Another thing to consider is if the particular cemetery allows such additions.
#LinksToWhatYouWant
With QR codes you can link to a variety of things, so theoretically families can choose what best to link to. This could be a favorite video, song, or in one case a citation of all the publications written by the entombed. Additionally QR codes may be used by organizations to provide additional information about those buried in their local cemeteries.
#HistoricGraves
One cemetery in Iowa used this method to document historic burials and inform today's generation about the people who settled in Des Moines Information from historians, Archie Cook and Mike Rowley and ancestors of those buried in the cemetery was used to create 71 videos ranging from 30 seconds to 3 minutes. These videos were then linked to the graves using QR codes. Creator of the project Kristen Bartley hopes to continue to document many more historic graves with the help of the Iowa Arts Council and Friends of Des Moines Parks and continued support of the community.
It's amazing how technology is helping to connect us to the past and provided a memorial to those we love!