How to Bury the Dead in Swamp Towns: Above-Ground Cemeteries and Vaults
New Orleans is a unique city, built on one of the most famous flood plains in America. Its location is particularly challenging when it comes to burying the dead. Unlike many other cities where traditional underground burial is the norm, cemeteries in swamp towns like New Orleans have adapted to the environment by using above-ground crypts and vaults. This article explores the unique burial practices in areas dominated by wetlands and swamp creeks.
Challenges of Burial in Swamp Towns
The city of New Orleans is a prime example of a swamp town. Due to its location on one of America's most flood-prone plains and its frequent near-riverside conditions, the local soil is mostly saturated with water. In other words, digging even a few inches into the ground will likely result in water flooding the site. This characteristic directly influences how bodies are buried, leading to the use of alternative methods such as above-ground crypts and vaults.
Abandoning Traditional Underground Burying
Burying the dead in traditional underground cemeteries poses significant challenges in swamp towns. The saturated soil makes conventional burial nearly impossible without causing water to enter the tomb. In places like New Orleans, the answer has been to shift to above-ground cemeteries and vaults. These structures provide a solution that keeps the remains elevated above the ground and water level, ensuring that the burial process is both hygienic and feasible.
Why Above-Ground Vaults?
Above-ground vaults are a practical solution for swamp towns. These structures offer several advantages over traditional underground burial. First, they prevent the seepage of groundwater into the burial site, reducing the risk of contamination. Additionally, the vaults ensure that the remains are preserved more effectively, as the air and moisture within the vault are controlled to minimize decomposition.
Burial Practices in Specific Areas
Similar to New Orleans, other regions with vast wetlands and swamp creeks also employ above-ground burial methods. In the bayous of Louisiana, for example, many cemeteries follow the same practice of using above-ground crypts to respectfully rest the deceased. Likewise, in Key West, Florida, where the land is often low-lying and similarly permeable, above-ground burial techniques are also commonly used.
Construction Techniques
Backfilling or constructing burial sites on higher ground that is relatively drier is a common practice in swamp towns. In many cases, these cemeteries are built on artificial raised platforms to ensure they are not subject to natural flooding. The resulting above-ground vaults and crypts provide a safe and dignified final resting place for the deceased, keeping them elevated away from the wet soil below.
Conclusion
The unique burial practices in swamp towns like New Orleans reflect a pragmatic and necessary adaptation to the local environment. These practices not only ensure the preservation of the remains but also maintain the dignity and respect for the deceased. Whether in New Orleans, the bayous of Louisiana, or other swampy regions, above-ground cemeteries and vaults serve as a testament to the ingenuity of the communities in facing the challenges of their surroundings.
These innovative solutions not only address the practical challenges of burial in swampy environments but also preserve the cultural and historical significance of remembrance. As the world continues to evolve and adapt to changing landscapes and climate conditions, the practices of above-ground burial in swamp towns will likely remain a vital and respected method of honoring the past.