Cemeteries have a unique set of responsibilities. They must honor the deceased, provide a place of mourning, and maintain peace in the community for generations to come. These responsibilities are not easy to fulfill.
A cemetery can be a difficult place to visit. Many of them are tucked away, have unmarked entrances, or are on private property. Make sure to know exactly where you are going and bring someone along in case of an emergency.
Modern day cemeteries
Despite their gruesome reputation, cemeteries are an important part of our cultural landscape. They tell stories of heritage, family, and community, and are a place to reflect on the past. They also act as green spaces, supporting local flora and wildlife.
With the rise of modern cemetery management centered on profit, efficiency and standardized tombstones, it has become difficult to individuate graves. But some savvy cemetery managers are seeking to attract communities to their grounds with movie nights, concerts, smartphone history hunts, and other community events.
The result is that cemeteries are starting to look a lot more like parks, with manicured lawns and flat markers that blend in with the landscape. Some even offer natural burials, allowing for quick and easy re-use of the site. This approach is also a good way to protect wild land. As cities continue to expand and the need for more burial space grows, some fear that we may run out of usable land for cemeteries.
Historic cemeteries
Historic cemeteries are special places that offer visitors the opportunity to remember their ancestors. They also help us understand a time and place through their unique architecture and landscapes. Some have been listed in the National Register of Historic Places. This designation may qualify them for financial incentives and consultation with MHT.
Historical cemeteries first emerged in the 19th century, with the rural cemetery movement. Before that, people generally buried their dead in churchyards or town commons. This was a far more personal experience than the largely anonymous inscriptions on modern headstones.
Many historic cemeteries are still used for burials. However, many are now valued for their quiet beauty and as green spaces. They are often used for reflection and meditation. In addition, they can be important for wildlife and habitat preservation. Some have even become public parks.
Green cemeteries
Green or natural burial is a way to honor your loved one while helping the environment. The process eliminates the need for formaldehyde embalming, environmentally unfriendly concrete vaults and caskets, and allows the body to decompose naturally without releasing toxic chemicals into the soil.
The body is buried at a depth of 3-4 feet, which encourages the growth of bacteria and allows for quick, efficient decomposition. Burial in this manner also helps prevent settling, which can cause environmental problems.
Many green cemeteries are located on natural preserves that protect the surrounding plants and animals. Some are even dedicated to restoring and conserving the land. They also promote the use of sustainable markers and limit many types of decorations. In addition, the burial fee pays for the maintenance of the site. Some even offer trees, shrubs and flowers for sale to visitors. These green cemeteries are often certified by the Green Burial Council (GBC).
Natural burial
A natural burial is a way of disposing of a loved one’s body that has less impact on the environment. It involves burying the body in a biodegradable coffin, avoiding embalming, and planting a tree or shrub to memorialize the site. The burial sites are often located on farmland, nature preserves, or other sustainable land.
Natural burials are becoming more popular, and many conventional cemeteries now offer a “green” section for this option. These sections usually don’t allow a vault or markers made from non-natural materials, and they also restrict the use of chemical-laden flowers.
In addition to being environmentally friendly, natural burials can also be more meaningful for families. For example, some green funerals require family members to participate in the laying of the body to rest, which can help create a sense of community among mourners. Another benefit of natural burial is that it can be more cost-effective than traditional burials because it eliminates expenses like outer burial containers, caskets, and embalming services.