Mortuary: History of the Term

Posted on April 6th, 2018 by Foothill Funeral and Cremation under Burial, Death, Glendora, Mortuaries, Mortuary
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Mortuary Glendora

Archaeologically and anthropologically speaking, the word, mortuary, means: ‘any purpose-built structure, resembling a normal dwelling in many ways, in which a dead body is buried.’”

Dead House

Prior to the 14th century, when they coined the term “mortuary,” people placed their dead in a “deadhouse.” Such a blunt term, it’s little wonder a new phrase caught on by 1865. After all, despite the myriad ways people treat and place loved ones who have died (relative to spiritual beliefs and cultural context), most share a universal desire to honor their dead. During the mid-20th century, people used mortuaries in areas with cold winter climates. Mourners used structures for burial because grave excavation in winter, without modern equipment, was difficult or impossible.Glendora Mortuary

Mortuary Metamorphosis

Funeral Mortuary GlendoraThe formal word “mortuary” was eventually replaced by the friendlier adjectival-noun combination, “funeral parlor,” and finally, “funeral home.” The term now refers to a building used to embalm bodies and arrange and conduct funerals. Compared to other countries, the United States has a relatively short funeral-home related history. In fact, until the 20th century, family, friends and neighbors organized and arranged American funerals themselves. So, most mourners held services and buried bodies in the backyard. But, as communities grew, families started sharing the cost of land for bodies, calling the spaces “cemeteries.” They also opted to hire others to handle logistical issues associated with death. Mourners appreciate how much easier this makes it for them to start processing their grief.

Glendora Mortuary DeathDo you call a Mortuary or Funeral Home?

In Southern California, where Foothill Funeral & Cremation is located, people search for the term “Funeral Home” when someone they love dies. What do you call it? A mortuary, funeral home, funeral parlor or undertaker’s establishment? Most facilities offer several types of services to help you handle your loved one’s last wishes.

About Foothill Funeral & Cremation Services

Glendora Mortuary GraveWhatever you do to mark your loved ones’ deaths, we would love to help during your time of need. We love helping folks take care of the details so they can move forward with their lives. Give us a call (626) 335-0615 or drop by our Glendora showroom. Our relationship with United Methodist Church is the perfect place for mourners to host funerals and memorial. You’ll love the grandiose yet intimate setting. We proudly serve the San Gabriel Valley, San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles Basin, Orange County and the Inland Empire. Working in the mortuary industry since 1996, we have worked hard to build a reputation of quality, sincerity and trust. Please allow us to help you at your time of need or in the future. Call today (626) 335-0615 or drop by our showroom.

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