A cemetery is a cemetery is a cemetery, right? Not exactly. There are three main types of cemeteries in the United States today; Government, Private, and Public… and they have major differences.

The National Cemetery system was created by Abraham Lincoln after the Civil War. Arlington National Cemetery, the first and most recognized, was actually the plantation property of Robert E. Lee. There are now over 115 National Cemeteries in 39 states. What does one pay to be buried in a National Cemetery? Nothing. Any honorably discharged veteran, his/her spouse, and their dependent children are eligible for burial in a National Cemetery. The cemetery plot, grave line or vault, and grave marker are all provided at no cost to the family. So you don’t want to be buried in a National Cemetery even though you’re eligible? The Veterans Administration which oversees the National Cemetery system will still prove the free grave marker and deliver it to the private of public cemetery of you choice.

The private cemetery is more or less like a neighborhood. It is managed by an association for the benefit of people who own the plots in that cemetery. They determine the rules and covenants of the cemetery, not unlike a homeowners association. These cemeteries are usually funded by a trust of endowment fund. This scenario is common in old rural areas, especially in the eastern part of the country where our history is so rich. It is also likely seen within the property of a church. Many historical churches have cemeteries on their property.

The public cemetery, the for-profit cemetery, provides the services and merchandise for a fee and the profit goes to the owners. Most cemeteries in the United States are for-profit.

Many people chose a cemetery based of the history, beautiful sculptures, and peaceful feeling they have when visiting. But buying cemetery property is like buying any other property. There are rules and regulations, the long lists of “you may…” and “you may not…” The most important thing is that you can abide by the rules. If you are a person who wants to place fresh flowers on the grave several times a year, but the cemetery policy is artificial flowers only, then that may not be the cemetery for you.