Video Tombstones

For years, several entrepreneurs have been working on producing video tombstones.  Many of these ventures failed for a variety of reasons such as lack of demand or inadequate design to withstand the elements.  See John Pain, Inventor Working Hard on Video Headstones, AP, Sept. 8, 2005.

Now, however, Vidstone, LLC is marketing a solar-powered video panel that can be embedded in a tombstone.  According to the company’s website,

The VIDSTONE Serenity Panel is the first personal memorial monument product of its kind. Utilizing solar-power technology and a weatherproof LCD panel it provides families the option of viewing a personalized video tribute right at their loved one’s final resting place. The VIDSTONE Serenity panel features a 5-10 minute multimedia memorial detailing the most precious memories of your loved one’s life. Their unique memories are no longer solely relived in your mind , but at your loved one’s place of rest. While nothing ever replaces the gift of life, memories can now come one step closer to forever being remembered and not forgotten with a Vidstone Serenity Panel.

Here are some additional facts about this product:

• Designed to last 15 years.
• Projected to be available in October 2005
• Cost will be approximately $1,500
• Winner of most innovative product at the 2005 International Cemetery and Funeral Association Convention
• Will function from freezing to 120 F; not hurt by higher/lower temperatures
• Needs four hours of sun exposures for 90 minutes of playtime