History of Cremation Urns

Slone & Co. Funeral Directors • October 11, 2022

Throughout history, urns have played a large role in many religions and societies, particularly in relation to cremation and the acceptance of its practice. 

cremation services in Lakewood OH

Archaeologists believe that humans in Europe and the Near East used cremation urns in the caves where they lived for approximately 3000 B.C. Numerous artifacts from the Stone Age show that cremation was a common practice for disposing of dead bodies, with the ashes being kept in urns for later use. This action was taken as a mark of respect for the departed. If you're a family member who has made the difficult decision to opt for cremation, selecting an appropriate urn for the remains is of the utmost importance. Picking an urn might be difficult, but cremation services in Lakewood, OH are there to help. 


What Is Meant by the Term “Urn” 


Urns for cremation are, at their most fundamental level, containers that are utilized for the purpose of holding the cremated remains of a person who has passed away. Several kinds of urns are used for cremation, and each can be purchased in a range of forms, including both size and shape. The quantity of cremains that will be obtained following the completion of the cremation procedure is a factor that should be considered when selecting an urn for the remains of a deceased loved one. For example, if you choose to preserve the urn with your loved one's remains at your family home, a columbarium, or crypt, you can use them as permanent containers for cremated ashes. 


When Did People First Start Using Cremation as a Method of Final Disposition? 


According to records from archaeological excavations, the practice of turning the deceased's body to ashes may be traced back to the early Stone Age, around 3000 B.C. in Europe. It was reported that 32 urns used for cremation were found in Jiahu, China, making this location the location of the oldest discovery of cremation urns. It has been stated that these urns come in various sizes, indicating that there are cremation urns available for both children and adults. 


At What Point Did Cremation Become Common Practice? 


After 1800, England's population and architecture began to surge within expanding cities, putting strain on previously underutilized spaces like Anglican churchyards. Because of a grave shortage in the 1850s, Parliament decreed that cemeteries would replace churchyards. The Church's perspective on death shifted as a result of these changes. The government's meddling has led to the rise of alternatives to the Anglican burial ritual and the introduction of laws mandating cremation. By the end of the 19th century, cremation had made a comeback in Europe, along with the use of urns. 


Cremation is currently experiencing a surge in popularity in our modern society, and as a result, there is an increased need for urns suited to the practice. Numerous individuals now have a specific image of how they would like their urn to look. Some people prefer an urn for cremation that would memorialize the departed person's life, while others want cremation urns with designs that reflect their religious beliefs. Some people decide to purchase biodegradable urns so that they can securely scatter the ashes of a deceased loved one on the earth or at sea after their passing. 


Conclusion 


At present, several religions that once frowned upon the practice of cremation have come around and begun to accept it. The family of the person who passed away has the option of placing the cremated remains of their loved one in an urn garden. Families also have the option of placing an urn containing cremated remains in a columbarium, a wall specifically designed to house urns and can be found in most cemeteries as well as funeral homes. For more inquiries, you can contact cremation services in Lakewood, OH. 


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