The Hidden Secrets of Cemeteries: Why Graveyards Don't Grow Bigger
For many, the idea of visiting a graveyard seems like a somber and often meaningless experience. However, behind the scenes, these burial grounds hold a unique set of business practices that may surprise you. In this article, we delve into the reasons why graveyards don't grow bigger despite the fact that people continue to die each day.
The Business of Death
The truth behind the operation of cemeteries is a mix of tradition and practicality. As the article suggests, graveyards are not buying the plots as a permanent fixture but rather leasing them for specified periods. This leasing model, often set for a few generations, ensures that graveyards can efficiently manage space, allowing them to keep their operations financially viable.
Leasing vs. Ownership
The fine print in the paperwork accompanying the selection of a burial plot is crucial. The text clearly states that the plot is not sold but rather leased. This lease typically comes with a specific time frame. After this period elapses, the grave is subject to be dug up, the remains are sometimes cremated, and the plot is then resold to another family. This business model maintains a fresh supply of customers while also ensuring space management.
Leasing Periods and Cremation Practices
Leasing periods are a matter of negotiation and vary from cemetery to cemetery. It's common for these periods to range from 10 to 20 years. During this time, many families maintain the gravesite through regular visits, flower arrangements, and remembrances. However, when a grave goes unattended for a long time, cemeteries might have the right to relocate the remains and sell the plot. The actual practices might vary; some might cremate the remains, dispose of them, or use them for research, depending on regulations and costs.
Cemeteries and Unattended Graves
One of the lesser-known practices in the cemeteries industry is the handling of neglected graves. According to some cemeteries, if a grave remains unattended for several years, it can result in the removal of remains and the reselling of the plot. This practice aims to ensure the graveyard remains operational and efficient. While some cemeteries are upfront about this, others keep it hidden to avoid unnecessary conflict with grieving families.
The Rise of Cremation
The practice of leasing rather than selling also contributes to the growing trend of cremation. It's proposed that the idea of someone being reburied is not appealing to many, adding to the increase in cremation. With cremation, the remains are usually stored in an urn, and many family members find it easier to keep the remains in their home or a designated location. This trend has also been reinforced by changes in burial regulations and costs, making cremation more attractive for many families.
The Author's Personal Experience
The author shares a personal story about her youngest brother, who died at 39 in 2005. Initially, he was cremated and his urn was passed around the family, eventually bothering the author. She approached a cemetery to bury his urn in her grandparents' plot, but was denied, as graves are not meant to be reentered. The inability to honor her brother by providing a final resting place in a place of respect led her to bury him with another family member. This story highlights the strict adherence to cemetery rules and how personal choices can be constrained by these practices.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the practices in cemeteries involve a complex balance between tradition, business necessity, and legal requirements. These practices, while not always transparent, aim to ensure the efficient management of space and the financial sustainability of cemeteries. Understanding these practices can provide insight into the challenges faced by families and the choices they make in their final goodbyes.