OAKLAND CREMATORIUM

Evening Star, Issue 19796, 21 February 1928, Page 2

OAKLAND CREMATORIUM

The site of the Oakland (U..5.A.) Crematorium and Columbarium _ occupies about two acres on an eminence overlooking Oakland and the foothills, and the buildings impress everybody with tbe quiet beauty of their architecture and of their surroundings, the site is an ideal one for the purpose, and the natural charm has been assisted by the art of the landscape gardener and the architect. It is said that there is not another spot in the ioclity more suitable for a final resting place for those who have gone before. The chapel is remarkable for its spaciousness and the subdued elegance of its decoration. The ceremony may be as simple or as elaborate as can be desired, and the possibilities for lodge service are especially notable. At tho close of the service the casket is removed to the incinerating chamber, accompanied by a witness for the family, who records his acknowledgment of the cremation.

The equipment and retorts aro the best known to modern science, and their construction and operation are the best that money can buy. Either a, cold or a hot retort may be used. The lire chambers are separate. The process is accomplished through the use of indirect heat., which insures perfect combustion, the flames never coming in contact with the remains. The ashes ot the casket and the clothing are carried off by properly regulated drafts. The body does not. burn: it is rather a process of dissolution. About 10 per cent, mineral residue remains as a pearly white ash. This ash is reverently placed in the columbarium to be perpetually guarded and cared for. In about an hour and a-half cremation accomplishes what Nature takes many years to complete. The columbarium is a separate threestory, fire-proof, stone building, permanent in structure and beautiful in architecture, each floor being divided into several rooms. It has an ideal location, situated away from the noise of traffic, surrounded by lawns, choice shrubbery, and beautiful flowers. The remains of dear ones are placed there with a sense of nearness and security that gives a new meaning to the phrase, “God's Acre.”