Is there a difference as to why the Mavar monument is referred to as a “Tomb” and the Barq monument is a “Mausoleum”?  I do not know.  But I would propose that a glance over the plans might offer some answers.  One impressive fact is that these designs were completed and possibly built during war-time when travel and rationing were in full effect.  The monuments are very similar, being made from granite that likely came from Weiblen’s quarry in Elberton City, Georgia.  While a smooth polished surface was used for the front facades, the sides and backs of the monuments use a stately quarry face.  While the Mavar monument has a fancy granite base I am more interested in the Barq monument’s concrete base, because the concrete base allowed the Weiblen company to unobtrusively stamp their signature on their fine work.

The finding aid does list one additional Biloxi commission that was much earlier than the Barq and Mavar monuments.

Gillen, Harry J. Monument, Biloxi, MS. 1919. Ink on tracing linen. 1 sheet.

I did find some Gillen family monuments in the Old Biloxi cemetery but none of them had the name Harry J. Gillen on them or any markings that led me to believe they were crafted by the Albert Weiblen Marble and Granite Works.

These monuments represent a fine level of design and craftsmanship that is proving to stand the test of time.  The finding aid shows that Weiblen designed monuments in several other locations in Mississippi.  The finding aid also admits that the records are incomplete so there maybe a Weiblen Works design quietly sitting in many a Mississippi marble orchard.  So get out there, check it out and let us know if there is one located near you!