Making final arrangements for a loved one is one of life's toughest tasks. While cremation might seem like a modern choice, its roots stretch back thousands of years. The question of when did cremation start reveals a fascinating story that spans continents and cultures. This practice has a rich history of cremation, from ancient rituals to its current acceptance. We'll explore where cremation came from and trace its journey to becoming the meaningful and popular choice it is for so many families today.
One of these decisions may be whether to cremate a loved one that did not leave specific instructions for their end-of-life services.
Cremation has surpassed burial as the most predominant post-life service in the United States. According to The Cremation Association of North America, over half of the people who pass away in the United States are cremated each year.
While it’s an extremely common practice today, cremation took time to settle in North America and other parts of the West. Together, we’ll explore the history of cremation and how it impacts today’s cremation practices.
When Did Cremation Actually Start?
Although evidence of cremation by ancient human civilizations has been discovered in Australia, many scholars consider the Neolithic Period as the origin of cremation practices.
Rustic urns from the Stone Age have been exhumed in parts of Europe, Russia, and Japan, showing that cremation has been a common way to lay loved ones to rest for nearly 3,000 years.
The True Origins: Beyond the Bronze Age
While many associate the start of cremation with ancient civilizations in Europe, its roots go back even further. Some of the earliest evidence actually comes from Australia, with findings suggesting the practice could date back as far as 40,000 years. One of the most significant discoveries is that of the Mungo Lady, whose cremated remains are approximately 17,000 years old. This shows that for tens of thousands of years, fire has been seen as a transformative and sacred part of honoring the deceased. It wasn't until around 3000 B.C. that organized cremation became a more common practice in Europe and the Near East, eventually spreading to ancient Greece and Rome. This long-standing tradition highlights a deeply human need to find meaningful ways to say goodbye.
Its Earliest Roots in the Bronze Age
Between 2500 and 1000 B.C. the practice of cremation spread to the British Isles and Southern parts of Europe, like Italy and Spain. Evidence found by archeologists paints a picture of special cremation ceremonies celebrating loved ones’ impacts and legacies, followed by the burial of the cremated remains in special cemeteries.
How the Greeks Embraced Cremation
As the cremation movement spread, it made quite an impact in Greece. Grecian funerals were known for being complex and decorative celebrations of life, and cremation was the choice for most early Greeks.
Another factor that popularized cremation in Greece was the number of fallen soldiers in the battle-ravaged region. Cremation was thought to be a better option for hygiene and sanitation than earthen burial.
Cremation as a Roman Tradition
Between the years 27 B.C. and 395 A.D., cremation was widely practiced and accepted as the most common form of burial in Rome. Ancient Romans used extensively decorated urns for their loved ones’ cremated remains.
Romans practiced two types of burial: cremation and inhumation, the burial of the dead in the ground. Inhumation required a large, heavily detailed sarcophagus and space for burial. The burials were usually located on land outside of the city walls due to disease and sanitation concerns. When land became scarce, they developed catacombs as final resting places for their loved ones.
The Roman cremation process was advanced and ceremonial, involving the removal of the body to the Necropolis (“city of the dead”) where it was placed upon a funeral pyre. The cremated remains were then collected and placed in an urn for a funeral procession.
Cremation remained the most widely used form of death care until around the 2nd century A.D., when inhumation gained more popularity due to the influence of early Christians and the Roman Catholic Church.
Cultures That Avoided Cremation
While many ancient societies embraced cremation, it was actively avoided in others due to deeply held religious beliefs. The Ancient Egyptians, for instance, believed that preserving the physical body was essential for the soul's journey into the afterlife, making practices like mummification central to their culture. The rise of Christianity brought a similar perspective to Europe, where the practice of cremation saw a steep decline. Early Christians held that the body was sacred, made in God's image, and needed to remain intact for the resurrection, a belief that led to burial becoming the standard for centuries.
This opposition was so strong that during the Middle Ages, cremation was often outlawed and even punishable by death. It was typically only used out of necessity, such as during plagues, to prevent the spread of disease from overwhelming communities. While most Christian denominations now accept cremation, with some guidelines on how ashes should be handled, this long history explains why burial remained the predominant choice in the Western world for such an extended period. This historical context shaped many of the funeral traditions that are still common.
A Shift Away From Cremation in the Middle Ages
The Age of Constantine saw sweeping religious reformation in the Roman empire. Christian and Jewish burial practices did not involve cremation, so cremation’s popularity took a long pause.
It occasionally regained prevalence in times of plague or war, when the number of people who needed to be laid to rest increased. Here, instead of being used ceremonially to celebrate lost loved ones, cremation was chosen for its efficiency.
Religious Opposition and Punishment
As Christianity’s influence grew across Europe, cremation practices faded almost completely. This shift was driven by the core Christian belief that the body is sacred—created in God's image—and needed to remain whole for the physical resurrection on Judgment Day. This conviction was so powerful that during the Middle Ages, cremation was often outlawed and could even be punished by death. In a dramatic reversal, the act of burning, once a reverent ceremony, became a symbol of punishment, famously used for heretics at the stake. This deep-seated opposition continued for centuries, with the Roman Catholic Church only officially lifting its ban on cremation in 1963.
The Return of Modern Cremation
Cremation, as we know it today, is only about 100 years old, beginning when Professor Ludovico Brunetti developed a cremation chamber that could regulate heat and replace an open pyre. Professor Brunetti premiered his chamber at the Vienna Exposition in 1873.
Meanwhile, another cremation chamber debuted stateside in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1876.
Even though these chambers were impressive, it wasn’t until later in the 19th century that today’s cremation developed in earnest.
In the early 1900s, Queen Victoria’s surgeon Sir Henry Thompson became concerned about the spread of diseases that had become epidemics and the sanitation of human remains. Piggybacking on Professor Brunetti’s chamber, he developed The Cremation Society of England in 1874.
The First Modern Crematories in Europe
The efforts of pioneers like Sir Henry Thompson quickly gained momentum across Europe. Just two years after the Cremation Society of England's founding, the first modern crematorium in the Western world was established in Milan, Italy, in 1876. This revival wasn't just about new technology; it was a direct response to growing public health concerns. Overcrowded cemeteries were increasingly viewed as a potential source of disease, and the scientific community began to advocate for cremation as a more sanitary option. This period marked a significant turning point, reintroducing cremation as a thoughtful and practical choice for honoring loved ones and setting the stage for the practices we see today.
Cremation's Journey to the United States
In North America, cremation was still not widely accepted in the late-1870s. End-of-life practices almost always involved an earthen burial instead.
This changed in 1876 when Dr. Julius LeMoyne built the first crematory in Washington, Pennsylvania. In 1884, another crematory opened, operated by a local cremation society, with more to follow.
Partially thanks to a push by protestants and health officials who wanted to reform the burial process for public health reasons, cremation was accepted in the United States as a respectable and reliable form of death care.
Industry Growth and Regulation
From those early beginnings, the idea of cremation began to catch on. By 1900, the United States had 20 crematories. Just over a decade later, in 1913, that number jumped to 52, with facilities performing over 10,000 cremations annually. This expansion was part of a larger cultural shift as more families started to view cremation as a dignified and practical choice. This growth also prompted the development of industry standards and regulations, ensuring that the process is always handled with the utmost care and respect—a principle that remains central to making sure our loved ones are honored properly.
Changing Religious Perspectives
For a long time, religious beliefs were a primary reason many cultures favored burial over cremation. That perspective has changed quite a bit over the last century. A major turning point was in 1963, when the Roman Catholic Church lifted its ban on the practice. While the Church still expresses a preference for burial, it now permits cremation, provided it isn’t chosen for reasons that conflict with Christian teachings. Most Protestant denominations have also come to accept it. It's worth noting that some faiths have specific guidelines for what to do with the ashes. For example, the Catholic Church requires that cremated remains be laid to rest in a sacred place, like a cemetery, rather than being scattered or kept at home. This evolution in religious views has given families more freedom to choose end-of-life options that align with both their faith and their personal wishes.
Why Did Cremation Become So Popular?
Today, the cremation process has bypassed traditional burial in popularity for several reasons:
- Location. Families often live apart from one another, making the selection of a burial site more difficult. Memorial ashes can be given to multiple loved ones who want to honor the deceased’s impact and legacy.
- Religious liberty. Many religions that did not originally embrace cremation have relaxed their views, including the Catholic church, which now permits cremation.
- Expense. The cost of cremation is more often more manageable than burial thanks to the ability to forgo expenses like caskets and burial plots.
The cremation rate in the U.S. continues to rise, and with it, the question of how to best celebrate our cremated loved one’s lives.
The Four Phases of the Modern Movement
The modern cremation movement didn’t just appear overnight; it evolved through distinct phases. The Cremation Association of North America identifies four key periods that shaped how we view cremation today. The first, the Purification phase (1873-1926), was driven by public health concerns, focusing on sanitation rather than sentiment. Next came the Memorialization phase (1927-1977), where the industry shifted to creating lasting tributes, much like traditional burials. This was followed by the Simplification phase (1978-2009), as people began opting for more direct and less elaborate services. We are now in the Personalization phase (2010-present), where the focus is on creating unique and meaningful goodbyes that truly reflect the individual. This shift is why so many families are choosing to celebrate their loved ones in new ways, from scattering ashes in a special place to creating a beautiful memorial diamond to carry with them always.
Cremation Growth by the Numbers
The rise of cremation in the United States was a slow burn. At the turn of the 20th century, it was still a niche practice. By 1900, the U.S. had just 20 crematories, and by 1913, that number grew to 52, performing just over 10,000 cremations annually. Fast forward to today, and the picture is completely different. The cremation rate officially surpassed that of traditional burial in 2016. Just one year later, the U.S. had over 3,000 crematories performing more than 1.5 million cremations, accounting for nearly 55% of all deaths. This incredible growth reflects a major cultural shift in how we approach end-of-life planning and memorialization, moving toward more personalized and flexible options for honoring our loved ones.
Environmental Considerations
For many, the environmental impact of end-of-life choices is an important factor. Cremation does have a carbon footprint, using fuel and releasing emissions during the process. However, when compared to traditional burial, it is often considered a more environmentally friendly option. Traditional burials can involve embalming fluids, concrete vaults, and the use of significant land resources. Cemeteries are a growing concern in crowded cities, and cremation helps conserve land space. For families who choose cremation, there are also ways to create a lasting tribute with a minimal physical footprint. Transforming a small portion of ashes into a diamond, for example, uses the purified carbon from a loved one to create something beautiful and enduring without the need for a burial plot.
Creating a Lasting Memorial with Ashes
The ashes of a loved one are a precious gift, and what we do with them can help further our loved one’s legacy and commemorate their life. There are several options available.
- Relocation to a columbarium. Ashes can be placed in an urn and relocated to a columbarium, a room or building with niches created for holding these special vessels.
- Earthen burial. Ashes may also be interned in the ground, similar to other burial methods.
- Memorial jewelry. For those who want to keep their loved one close, memorial jewelry is a thoughtful option. Crafted using a portion of our loved one’s ashes, this jewelry allows you to keep the memory of your loved one physically near.
There’s no right or wrong way to preserve your loved one’s ashes. Remembering their story is the most important part of supporting their legacy.
Understanding the Modern Cremation Process
The cremation process we’re familiar with today is a relatively modern practice. While ancient civilizations used open funeral pyres, the controlled method used by crematories is only about a century old. This shift began in 1873 when Professor Ludovico Brunetti invented a cremation chamber that could properly regulate heat. Just a few years later, the first modern crematory in the Western world opened in Milan, Italy, in 1876. That same year, Dr. Julius LeMoyne established the first crematory in the United States in Washington, Pennsylvania. Today, the process is highly refined and efficient. For an average adult, the cremation itself typically takes about 90 minutes to complete. After the process is finished and a cooling period has passed, the remaining bone fragments are carefully processed into a fine, consistent powder, resulting in about five pounds of what we refer to as “ashes” or “cremains.”
What Are Cremation Ashes, Really?
When you receive your loved one’s ashes, they are typically contained in a sealed plastic bag inside a simple container provided by the crematory or a decorative urn you’ve chosen. These remains, often called cremains, are primarily composed of bone minerals, mainly calcium phosphates, along with trace elements like sodium and potassium. They are sterile and completely safe to handle. Most importantly, they contain the carbon from your loved one’s unique life, the very element that makes life possible. This carbon is the foundation for creating a truly personal and lasting memorial.
Once you have the ashes, you can decide how you’d like to honor your loved one’s memory. Common choices include scattering them in a meaningful place, keeping them in an urn at home, or burying them in a cemetery. For those seeking a more tangible connection, it’s also possible to transform a small portion of the ashes into a new form. By purifying the carbon within the ashes, you can grow a one-of-a-kind memorial diamond—a brilliant and beautiful tribute that can be kept close and passed down through generations, continuing their story.
Newer Cremation Methods
As families seek more personalized and environmentally conscious options, end-of-life practices continue to evolve. Beyond traditional flame-based cremation, newer methods are becoming available. One such method is alkaline hydrolysis, sometimes called water cremation, which uses a gentle water-based process instead of fire. Another is natural organic reduction, or human composting, which transforms remains into nutrient-rich soil. These alternatives reflect a growing desire for choices that align with personal values, particularly those concerning environmental impact.
This shift is part of a larger trend toward personalization. The Cremation Association of North America identifies several phases in the modern cremation movement, with the current era defined by “Personalization.” Families are no longer limited to one-size-fits-all solutions. Instead, they are creating unique, meaningful tributes that truly reflect the life and spirit of the person they’ve lost. Whether through a biodegradable urn, a living reef memorial, or a sparkling diamond grown from their ashes, the focus is on celebrating a remarkable life in a way that feels just right.
A Unique Memorial: The Cremation Diamond
We can celebrate our radiant loved ones through the creation and use of cremation diamonds. At Eterneva, it’s our goal to help your loved one’s memorial shine as brightly as they did in life and share their remarkable stories.
The process of transforming your loved one’s ashes into a beautiful diamond starts with a welcome package that includes step-by-step instructions on the creation process and a questionnaire so we can learn more about your loved one’s incredible story.
Once we begin creating your memorial diamond, you’ll receive continual updates about the transformation journey, including personal messages and videos that show your loved one’s ashes are being handled with the utmost respect and care.
At the end of the creation process, you’ll receive a family heirloom that is as unique as your loved one that you can keep by your side throughout your life.
The Lasting Legacy of Cremation
When our loved ones pass on, we’re left with the challenging task of honoring their memory and channeling our emotions into a passion for lengthening their legacy. Eterneva makes the process effortless and transforms your loved one’s cremated ashes into a diamond that will spark a thousand memorable conversations.
Sources:
Industry Statistical Information | Cremation Association of North America (CANA)
History of Cremation | CremationAssociation.org
Cremation is the hottest trend in the funeral industry | NBC News.com
ODYSSEY/Rome/Death&Burial | Emory
Frequently Asked Questions
I thought cremation was a modern practice. How long has it actually been around? That’s a common misconception, but cremation is actually an ancient tradition. Archeologists have found evidence of cremation practices that go back tens of thousands of years. It was a well-established and ceremonial practice in societies like ancient Greece and Rome long before it became common in the United States.
If cremation is so old, why did burial become the standard in the West for so long? The shift away from cremation was largely due to religious beliefs. Early Christianity, in particular, emphasized keeping the body intact for the resurrection. This belief was so influential that for centuries, burial became the required practice throughout Europe, and cremation was often forbidden.
What caused cremation to become popular again in modern times? The revival started in the late 1800s, initially driven by public health concerns about overcrowded cemeteries. Today, its popularity is due to several factors. Families are often spread across the country, cremation can be more affordable than burial, and many religious views have become more accepting of the practice.
What exactly are "ashes" or "cremains"? What we call "ashes" are actually the processed remains of bone fragments after the cremation process. They are primarily composed of bone minerals, like calcium phosphates, and are sterile and safe to handle. Importantly, they also contain the carbon from a person's life, which is the essential element for creating a memorial diamond.
Are there options besides keeping ashes in an urn or scattering them? Absolutely. We are in an era focused on personalization, and there are many ways to create a lasting tribute. Some families choose to bury the ashes or place them in a columbarium. Others opt for more unique memorials, like turning a small portion of the ashes into a piece of jewelry or a beautiful, one-of-a-kind diamond that can be kept close forever.
Key Takeaways
- Cremation has deep historical roots: Far from being a new practice, cremation dates back thousands of years and was a common way for ancient cultures, including the Greeks and Romans, to honor their loved ones.
- Its popularity has ebbed and flowed with cultural shifts: Cremation's acceptance in the Western world was paused for centuries due to religious beliefs favoring burial, but it saw a modern revival driven by public health concerns and changing perspectives.
- Personalization is key to modern memorials: Today, the focus has shifted from tradition to creating a unique tribute that truly reflects an individual's life, giving families the freedom to choose meaningful options like turning ashes into a lasting diamond.
