A Family Plot in the Cemetery

In addition to funeral services, cemetery property is another consideration when you’re making final arrangements. It's important to tour the cemetery so you can select the type and location of cemetery property that is right for you and your family. Regardless of whether your choice is burial or cremation, permanent memorials can create a lasting heritage for your family.

Most people are familiar with the concept of burial but may not be aware of the variety of options that are often available. Private Family Estates (also called Family Plots) are small areas within the cemetery that allow for burial of several members of the same family. They are generally separated by gates, shrubbery, or other dividers, like the granite coping shown above.

Memorial benches are benches that either simply memorialize a loved one scattered or buried in a cremation garden, or actually contain the remains within the bench itself. Many families choose to add a bench to their family plot to create a garden like place where family members can find peace and reflect upon their loved ones.

  

A permanent family plot can also give loved ones a physical place for visitation. The ceremony accompanying the placement of an urn in a cremation niche or a cremation garden in a cemetery provides family and friends with closure after the loss of a loved one. And having a place to come back to can sometimes help keep memories close for those who are still here.

Some cemeteries allow upright headstones, called monuments, to be used with ground burials. Headstones that are flat against the ground are called flat markers or grass markers. It is not unusual to combine the two when creating the perfect family estate. In some cemeteries, or sections of cemeteries, only flat markers are used to preserve the natural appearance of the landscape and help reduce grounds maintenance and lessen the risk of damage to the granite from mowers and lawn equipment.

Many people overlook the importance of cemetery property for those who choose cremation, but permanent placement of the ashes (cremains) is an important part of memorialization too. Having a private place to honor family members that have been cremated is just as important as for those who choose burial. The fact remains that you are still creating a special place for family members now and into the future.

 

As future generations may not feel a connection with the deceased, a permanent family plot can provide a wonderful spot to visit when researching their own family history. Granite mausoleums, like the ones shown in the family estate above, can be considered a blank canvas for personalizing your memorial with names and dates, religious and personal components, versus, and laser etched photos of family or special pets. Make a family plot the place to honor your family's lifestyle and beliefs.