Cemetery plot finders have revolutionized the way people locate and research burial sites. These digital tools provide access to vast databases containing millions of cemetery records from around the world. Find a Grave, one of the most popular cemetery plot finders, offers information on over 580,000 cemeteries across 249 countries.
These online resources serve multiple purposes. Genealogists use them to trace family histories, while history enthusiasts explore the final resting places of notable figures. Cemetery plot finders also help individuals locate the graves of loved ones, especially when visiting unfamiliar cemeteries.
Many cemetery plot finders now incorporate GPS technology and user-contributed content. Websites like BillionGraves allow users to upload headstone photos and transcribe inscriptions, creating a collaborative global database of burial records. This crowdsourced approach has significantly expanded the availability of cemetery information online.
Understanding Cemetery Plots
Cemetery plots serve as final resting places for individuals and families. They come in various types and require careful consideration when purchasing.
Types of Cemetery Plots
Single plots accommodate one casket and are the most common option. Double plots, designed for couples, can be arranged side-by-side or in a double-depth configuration. Family plots group multiple graves together, allowing relatives to be buried near one another.
Cremation plots are smaller and specifically designed for urns. Mausoleum crypts offer above-ground entombment, while lawn crypts provide in-ground burial with pre-installed vaults.
Green burial plots, growing in popularity, allow for natural decomposition without embalming or non-biodegradable materials.
Purchasing Considerations
Location within the cemetery significantly affects plot prices. Prime spots near landmarks or with scenic views often cost more. Urban cemeteries typically charge higher rates than rural ones due to limited space.
Plot size and type influence cost, with single plots generally being less expensive than family plots or mausoleums. Some cemeteries offer package deals that include burial services and grave markers.
Maintenance fees are crucial to factor in, as they cover ongoing care of the grounds. Verify the cemetery’s policies on decorations, headstones, and visitation hours before making a purchase.
Timing can impact prices. Pre-need purchases may secure lower rates compared to at-need acquisitions during times of loss.
Locating Burial Sites
Finding a specific grave can be challenging, but modern technology and online resources have made the process much easier. Several methods are available to help locate burial sites efficiently and accurately.
Online Cemetery Databases
FamilySearch and Ancestry offer extensive digital archives of cemetery records. These platforms allow users to search by name, date, and location. BillionGraves provides a vast collection of headstone photos with GPS coordinates. JewishGen specializes in Jewish genealogy and cemetery records worldwide.
Many of these databases are user-contributed, enhancing their scope and detail. They often include additional information like obituaries, family relationships, and historical context. Some sites offer mobile apps for on-the-go research.
GPS Technology and Mapping
GPS technology has revolutionized cemetery navigation. Many cemeteries now use GPS mapping to pinpoint grave locations. Visitors can enter coordinates into their smartphones or GPS devices for precise directions.
Some cemeteries, like Arlington National Cemetery, offer interactive maps on their websites. These tools allow users to search for specific graves and get exact locations. GPS cemetery data is particularly useful for large or historic cemeteries with complex layouts.
Searching by Last Name
Searching by last name is a common and effective method for locating burial sites. Most cemetery offices maintain alphabetical indexes of interments. These records typically include the deceased’s full name, date of burial, and plot location.
For larger cemeteries, sectional maps often group burials by family name. This organization makes it easier to locate related graves. Some cemeteries provide online search tools where visitors can enter a last name and receive plot information.
In older or smaller cemeteries, walking the grounds and reading headstones may be necessary. Staff or volunteers can often assist with these searches.
Transcription Projects and Records
Transcription projects play a vital role in preserving cemetery records and making them accessible to researchers. These efforts involve documenting headstone information and burial records from cemeteries worldwide.
Understanding Transcription Efforts
Transcription projects aim to digitize cemetery records and headstone information. Volunteers visit cemeteries to photograph and document grave markers, capturing details like names, dates, and epitaphs. Organizations like BillionGraves and FamilySearch lead large-scale efforts to create searchable databases of cemetery records.
These projects often focus on older or at-risk cemeteries where records may be deteriorating. Transcribers also work with local historical societies and genealogical groups to ensure accuracy and completeness of the data collected.
Contributing to Transcription Projects
Individuals can participate in transcription projects by volunteering their time and skills. Many organizations provide mobile apps or online platforms for easy submission of headstone photos and information.
The USGenWeb Tombstone Transcription Project encourages volunteers to document local cemeteries and submit transcriptions to their database. BillionGraves offers a user-friendly app for capturing headstone images and GPS coordinates.
Contributors should follow guidelines for accurate transcription, including noting any discrepancies or illegible text. Some projects also seek volunteers to verify and index existing records, ensuring the quality of the final database.
Virtual Memorials and Obituaries
Virtual memorials and online obituaries offer modern ways to honor and remember loved ones. These digital tributes provide accessible platforms for preserving memories and sharing information about the deceased.
Creating Online Tributes
Virtual memorials allow families to create lasting tributes to their departed loved ones. These digital spaces often include photos, videos, and personal stories. Many platforms let users add virtual flowers or candles to express condolences.
Some services offer interactive features like guest books where visitors can leave messages. Family members can update and maintain these memorials over time, adding new memories or milestones.
Virtual cemeteries provide a centralized location for multiple memorials. These sites often include GPS coordinates, helping people locate physical grave sites if desired.
Accessing Historical Obituaries
Online obituary databases have revolutionized genealogical research. These archives contain death dates, family member information, and biographical details about the deceased.
Many libraries and historical societies now digitize old newspapers, making obituaries from past centuries accessible. Genealogy websites often include searchable obituary collections.
Some online services allow users to create new obituaries or enhance existing ones with additional information. This can help preserve family histories and connect distant relatives.
Researchers can often find obituaries by searching for specific names, dates, or locations. Some platforms offer advanced search features to narrow results by occupation or other criteria.
Using Cemetery Records for Genealogy
Cemetery records provide valuable information for genealogists and family historians. These records often contain birth and death dates, family relationships, and other details crucial for building family trees and understanding ancestral histories.
Compiling Family Trees
Cemetery records are essential tools for constructing accurate family trees. Gravestone inscriptions frequently list birth and death dates, helping establish timelines for ancestors. Many headstones also include family relationships, such as “beloved wife of” or “son of,” which aid in connecting family members across generations.
FamilySearch and Find a Grave are valuable online resources for accessing cemetery records. These platforms allow users to search for ancestors by name, location, or cemetery. Researchers can often find photos of gravestones, burial information, and sometimes even obituaries linked to individual records.
For those with Jewish ancestry, JewishGen offers specialized cemetery databases that can be particularly helpful in tracing family lineages and uncovering information about relatives who may have immigrated from Europe.
Historical Research Methods
Effective use of cemetery records requires specific research techniques. Start by identifying potential burial locations through obituaries, death certificates, or family records. Once a cemetery is located, consult burial registers or plot maps to pinpoint grave locations.
On-site visits to cemeteries can yield additional information not available in online databases. Researchers should document gravestone inscriptions, noting symbols or epitaphs that might provide clues about an ancestor’s life or beliefs.
For older or poorly maintained cemeteries, rubbing techniques or specialized photography can help decipher weathered inscriptions. Cross-referencing cemetery findings with other historical documents, such as census records or church registers, can help verify information and fill gaps in family histories.
Contact Information and Support
Finding information about cemetery plots often requires reaching out to various sources. Cemeteries and online resources can provide valuable assistance in locating graves and obtaining records.
Reaching Out to Cemeteries
Contacting cemeteries directly is often the most effective way to find plot information. Many maintain detailed records of interments and plot ownership.
Call or visit the cemetery office during business hours. Staff can usually access databases or physical records to assist with inquiries.
Provide as much information as possible about the deceased, including full name, date of death, and any known family members buried there.
Some cemeteries offer online contact forms or email addresses for submitting requests. Check their website for preferred contact methods.
Obtaining Help from Online Resources
Several online platforms offer tools to search for grave locations and cemetery records.
Find a Grave (findagrave.com) hosts millions of cemetery records contributed by volunteers. Users can search by name, cemetery, or location.
The site allows people to create virtual memorials, add photos, and share information about burials.
For technical support or general inquiries, Find a Grave provides contact information:
- Address: 1300 West Traverse Parkway, Lehi, UT 84043
- Website: www.findagrave.com/contact
Other genealogy websites like Ancestry.com and FamilySearch.org may also have cemetery record collections to aid in searches.