19th Century Headstone Of Child Unearthed In Lansdale, Police Say

LANSDALE, PA -- A Lansdale resident was digging in the back of his property on Monday when police say he came across something unexpected.

A headstone. For a two-year-old child.

From April, 1895.

Police said that they have since issued a temporary cease and desist order to the property owner, who is fully cooperating with authorities.

The headstone was taken into police custody while they launch an inquiry into the issue.

The cause of death, and circumstances surrounding the death, are a mystery.

The Lansdale Historical Society said that there is no record of death or illness of a child during that time period.

Additionally, officials said that records from that time period do not conclusively state what the property in question was being used for at the time.

The child was approaching a third birthday at the time of death, with an official age of two years, 11 months, according to police.

Police noted that the name of the child would not be released until, with reasonable certainty, living family members could be contacted.

This is a breaking story. Check back with Patch for more information as it becomes available.