Such cases, called vaults were placed inthe ground prior to burial of the
coffin or casket.  The vault's function was to deter water from reaching the
coffin (and corpse0 for as long as possible.  There is still a healthy
business in vault production.

Melissa Diamanti wrote:

> I am trying to research a "Cement Burial Case" company that was based in
> SE Pennsylvania c. 1920's to 1980.  But I know nothing about their
> product.  I've been impressed with the range of knowledge among the
> readers here, so I thought I'd give it a try:
> Can anyone tell me what these burial cases w ere? See above Are they
> caskets made
> of cement? No  The coffins are placed in the vaults which are laid ib the
> ground This soulds like an extra-heavy load for pall bearers.  Or is
> it some kind of covering over the casket, or a grave chamber that the
> casket is set in, instead?
> Also, what is the period of use?  When (and why) did these things come
> into fashion/popularity, and has this trend died out?
> Replies are welcome either on or off the list.
> Melissa Diamanti
> Archaeological & Historical Consultants, Inc.
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