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How can you best use this web site? |
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What is the origin of the columbarium? |
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What are basic columbarium-related definitions? |
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What is the advantage of columbarium interment over traditional interment? |
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Do you need a permit? |
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What other questions are frequently asked by other clients? |
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| How can you best use this web site? |
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First read some columbarium background information on this page. |
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Then use the navigation links to the right for researching each step as you move through your project. |
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Bookmark us and visit as often as you need. |
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Ask us questions. |
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| What is the origin of the columbarium? |
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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. |
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The word columbarium is derived from the Latin word "columba" meaning "dove". Columbarium is another word for "dovecote", a structure used to house doves. |
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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. |
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According to Cremation Association of North America, the rate of cremation is increasing steadily. Between 2003 and 2005, the rate increased by 22%. |
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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. |
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The percentage of cremations in the US is estimated to reach 40% of deaths by 2020. |
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| What are basic columbarium-related definitions? |
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Cremains: cremated remains |
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Mausoleum: burial vault for a casket |
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Niche: burial vault for an urn |
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Urn: container for cremains |
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Pre-need: burial purchases made in advance of death |
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At-need: burial purchases made at time of death |
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| What is the advantage of columbarium interment over traditional interment? |
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Columbariums require less land. |
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Columbariums typically do not require permits. |
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Columbariums are less expensive to operate than a cemetery. |
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Columbarium niches are typically less expensive than burial plots for buyers. |
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The entire process for burial by cremation is less expensive for the buyer. |
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Columbarium burials are increasing in demand in the US. |
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| Do you need a permit? |
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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.. |
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| What other questions are frequently asked by other clients? |
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We have answered many of the frequent questions throughout our site in the appropriate area, so please take time to browse. Also be sure to visit our columbarium forum, Columbarium Connection. |
