The History and Depth of Burials: Six Feet Below and Beyond

The age-old practice of burying the deceased six feet below ground is a tradition that has endured for centuries. This customary depth serves a variety of practical and cultural purposes, contributing significantly to the way we manage cemeteries and respect the departed. However, the actual depth of graves varies widely, influenced by health, cultural, and economic factors. This article explores the rationale behind the preferred burial depth and how it has evolved over time.

Understanding the 6-Foot Burial Tradition

The term "six feet under" has long been used as a metaphor for death, but its literal meaning is far from universal. In reality, most graves are significantly shallower than six feet, often around four to five feet deep. This observation highlights the flexibility of burial practices.

The depth of burying the dead varies based on several factors including soil composition, machinery availability, and local regulations. In some areas, it's even possible for graves to be dug only four and a half feet deep, especially in regions with rocky or challenging ground. Hand-dug graves are still necessary in some older parts of cemeteries where large machinery cannot be used.

Health and Safety Considerations

The primary reason for the six-foot depth is health and safety. Burials at this depth serve to prevent the spread of disease by minimizing the risk of contact with decaying bodies. During the plague, it was believed that a six-foot deep grave would be sufficient to prevent the spread of infection.

Additionally, the depth of the grave protects against animals digging up the remains and scavengers accessing the body. Furthermore, excessive depth can lead to issues such as flooding and the disturbance of graves due to vehicular traffic or other impact.

Regulatory and Health Requirements

Modern cemeteries typically have specific requirements for the depth of graves. For instance, in some areas, a full casket burial with a single casket is expected to be at least four and a half feet deep unless the casket is exceptionally large. State and county laws often mandate the use of liners, usually made of plexiglass or plastic, to ensure the stability of the grave and to prevent it from sinking.

Depth Variations and Archaeological Practices

While the standard suggests a depth of six feet, it is important to note that this is not always strictly adhered to. In densely populated areas with challenging soil conditions, such as the Gold Miner area, graves may be shallower. This can be due to the presence of shale and other materials beneath the topsoil, making it more difficult to dig deeper graves.

In some instances, dynamite is used to break up rocks that impede the digging process, allowing the grave to be deeper within the constraints of the available machinery and technology.

The Six-Foot Burial and Cultural Significance

While six feet is the suggested depth, it is not the only factor in funeral practices. Placement of bodies also adheres to cultural norms. Individuals are typically buried with their head to the west, so they face east. Clergy members, for example, are buried with their head to the east, facing west.

In some traditions, the manner of burial can also indicate the cause of death. For instance, individuals who committed suicide might be buried at an angle or at a crossroads, symbolizing the intersection of life and death.

Conclusion

The depth of burial is a multifaceted issue influenced by health, safety, cultural practices, and practical considerations. While the six-foot depth is a guideline rooted in historical practices and health concerns, burial depth can vary widely depending on specific circumstances. Understanding the reasons behind these variations helps us appreciate the complexity and importance of funeral rites and the respect we pay to the deceased.