Table of Contents
What does it mean when a cemetery is defunct?
However, where the family has ceased to visit the cemetery and they have so long neglected to care for it that the ground is no longer recognizable as a cemetery, the family burial ground has been abandoned.
Why are some cemeteries abandoned?
There are, of course, many reasons, but the two most common problems are: Abandoned because the family has moved away or “died off.” No living family members or member of the community feel a personal connection to those who are buried there. Abandoned because of the age.
What is the oldest known grave?
the
The child died some 78,000 years ago. Image by Fernando Fueyo. A nearly 80,000-year-old grave discovered in Africa is the continent’s oldest-known human burial, archaeologists have announced. Those behind the find have christened the remains Mtoto, from the Swahili word for child.
Are cemeteries protected forever?
With the exception of religious cemeteries (which often do this anyways), the state regulates how cemeteries save to ensure, theoretically, that they can maintain a grave forever.
Why do they put fences around graves?
Mostly to preserve a sense of privacy, respect, and sacred ground. One basic reason for thefencing around cemeteries is to literally define the area as a place for the dead.
Is it legal to abandon a cemetery?
Such abandonment is a question of fact or a mixed question of law and fact[ii]. However, a cemetery is not abandoned as long as it is kept and preserved as a resting place for the dead with anything to indicate the existence of graves, or as long as it is known and recognized by the public as a graveyard[iii].
What happens to a family burial ground when it is abandoned?
However, where the family has ceased to visit the cemetery and they have so long neglected to care for it that the ground is no longer recognizable as a cemetery, the family burial ground has been abandoned. Merely because further interments in a cemetery become impossible, it does not lose its character [vii].
What is the difference between a cemetery and a church grave?
Because graveyards are attached to the church, churches may have stipulations that only members of that particular faith be buried there. Cemeteries, on the other hand, are secular. This means people of all faiths can be buried there. 4. Headstone requirements
Which churchyards are open for burials?
Earls Croome, Hill Croome and Strensham churchyards are also open for burials, though space is limited and it is possible the graveyards will fill up in the next 10-20 years. For all enquiries about churchyard policies, please contact the church office ( [email protected]) or 01684 591241.