Mausoleums Gain in Popularity

An interesting article in today’s New York Times reveals the growing trend among Americans to erect private family mausoleums rather than opting for traditional in-ground burials.  See Guy Trebay, For a Price, Final Resting Places That Even Tut Could Appreciate, NY Times, April 17, 2006.

Cold Spring Granite Company, one of the largest mausoleum builders, reports selling approximately 2,000 private mausoleums in 2005.  By contrast, in the 1980’s, the company sold less than 100 in most years.

Prices for these mausoleums start around $250,000 and range up to the millions.  They may be extremely elaborate with patios, mediation rooms, and exquisite furnishings.