The history of cremation is a long one. Although cremation services in Pennsylvania, for example, only go back to 1876, its origins date back to at least 3000 BCE. In Europe and the Near East, the practice of Cremation was common. In fact, many cultures preferred this method over traditional burial.
Early Cremation History
Cremation became an accepted practice during the early years of humans. During the period of 1,000 BC to 800 BC, the Greeks along the Mediterranean had created elaborate ceremonies. As part of the rituals, like many Pennsylvania cremation services, elaborate urns played a significant function. While the deceased did not lie in the ground in a magnificent coffin, he or she was placed in some magnificently sculpted urns.
The Romans adopted the Greek preference for cremation or, arguably, it came as part of their Etruscan heritage. It became popular around 600 BC. During the period of the Roman Empire (27 BC to 395 AD), many of the intricate urns now were placed in columbarium buildings. These richly decorated structures lay below the ground.
Cremation during the Middle Ages
With the rise of Christianity, the concept of cremation was replaced with traditional burial. Cremation either in England and Christian Europe became extremely rare. It was common only during times of epidemics. The arrival of the Black Death in the 14th century and the Great Plague of London in the 17th century are two examples where cremation became the preferred method of disposing of the deceased. In fact, where the general health of the population is threatened by mass death, cremation becomes the preferred method.
In other countries, cremation remained an active part of the death and grieving process. For some religions, cremation is the preferred and even only ways to show respect for the deceased. This is true of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism. Some other religions, however, such as Judaism never embraced this practice. Orthodox Jews, in particular disapproved of it as much as members of the Catholic Orthodox Church.
Cremation in Nineteenth Century Europe
This altered in the late 19th century. Physicians in various countries began to develop an interest in cremation. They also created improved methods. Among the first was Professor Brunetti of Italy. He displayed his new cremation chamber at the Vienna Exposition in 1873. The following year, Sir Henry Thompson, surgeon to Queen Victoria of England, founded the Cremation Society of England. Woking, England, and Gotha, Germany, followed with the first European crematories in 1878.
It begins with Cremation Services in Pennsylvania
Across the sea, in North America, a similar trend also began to emerge. While two cremations had taken place before the 1800s, the trend was about to change. It began with Pennsylvania. Cremation services first took place in this state in 1876 under Dr. Francis Julius Le Moyne in Washington and in 1884 in Lancaster. Since then, the interest in cremation services in Pennsylvania and other states has continued to grow. By 1901, the number of crematories had increased to 25. By 1999, the United States accounted for some 1,468 cremation facilities. The number continues to grow.
Modern Funeral Trends in the United States
By 2009, cremations accounted for 36.84 per cent of all methods of handling the bodies. In fact, the term "cremains" is becoming part of the vocabulary of funeral service providers. Pennsylvania cremation services are now common -approximately 37,000 Pennsylvanians annually. Cremation has indeed become a viable alternative for traditional burial services.
Why Cremate in PA?
In the move towards cremation, the rationale for the service varies. Among the most common reasons given for preferring this method are:

• Immediacy - cremation takes place usually within 48 hours
• Environmental concerns - abatement equipment and the absence of embalming and a casket, makes this less toxic
• Space - does not entail occupying a plot of land - particularly supported in countries such as Japan where space is at a premium
• Religion - some religions and cultures favor cremation over traditional burial
• Cost - Cremation costs in Pennsylvania and elsewhere are cheaper than those associated with a traditional burial.

Cremation in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, cremation costs are a major reason why recent years have seen an increase in the number of cremations. For many, traditional funeral seem to be prohibitive while cremation costs in Pennsylvania provide an affordable alternative. The immediacy, environmental issues and other aspects of cremation are attractive, however, in Pennsylvania, cremation costs undoubtedly serve as an attractive incentive.
In addition, the government does not interfere with the process. While they do provide legislative control over the overall behavior of funeral homes and services, they do not prohibit or restrict cremation. Under Pennsylvania law, cremation cannot take place before 24-hours has passed. The law also does not control cremation costs in Pennsylvania. You need to shop around to discover those that will fit your budget.
In Pennsylvania, cremation costs are only one part of the equation. The wishes of your loved one, your own vision and such aspects as environmental concerns all play a role. Let us help with your decision, let us offer you aid in selecting cremation services in Pennsylvania.