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How do we best use your web site?
What is the origin of the columbarium?
What are basic columbarium-related definitions?
What is the advantage of columbarium interment over traditional interment? 
What questions are you frequently asked by other clients? 
   
How do we best use your web site?
First read some columbarium background information on this page.
Then use the navigation links to the right for researching each step as you move through your project.
Wall requirements
Bookmark us and visit as often as you need.
Urn sources 
Ask us questions.
   
What is the origin of the columbarium?
   
The first evidence of cremation was found in the Bronze Age around 4000 BC. Since then, civilizations have evolved to create structures for cremated remains.
The word columbarium is derived from the Latin word "columba" meaning "dove". Columbarium is another word for "dovecote", a structure used to house doves.
Columbariums are associated with many religions, past and present. Romans used them; Buddhists and many Christian religions use them today. Most recently, the Catholic Church has allowed use of columbariums.
According to Cremation Association of North America, the rate of cremation is increasing steadily. Between 2003 and 2005, the rate increased by 22%.
The percentage of cremations in the US is trending toward a third of all deaths in 2006. This is compared to roughly 1% of all US deaths in 1900.
The percentage of cremations in the US is estimated to reach 40% of deaths by 2020.
   
What are basic columbarium-related definitions?
Cremains: cremated remains
Mauseoleum: burial vault for a casket
Niche: burial vault for an urn 
Urn: container for cremains
Pre-need: burial purchases made in advance of death
At-need: burial purchases made at time of death
   
What is the advantage of columbarium interment over traditional interment? 
   
Columbariums require less land. 
Columbariums typically do not require permits. 
Columbariums are less expensive to operate than a cemetery. 
Columbarium niches are typically less expensive than burial plots for buyers. 
The entire process for burial by cremation is less expensive for the buyer. 
Columbarium burials are increasing in demand in the US. 
   
Do we need a permit? 
   
Typically a permit is not required for a columbarium since cremains do not pose a health hazard. However, check with your local zoning department or your architect to confirm. You will need a building permit.. 
   
What other questions are you frequently asked by other clients? 
   
We have answered many of the frequent questions throughout our site in the appropriate area, so please take time to browse. 
 
 
 
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