State Guide: Ash Scattering in Indiana?

If you are thinking of scattering ashes in the state of Indiana, it may be helpful to know the official symbols:

• State Flower: Peony 🌺
• State Tree: Tulip Tree 🌳
• State Bird: Northern Cardinal 🦜
• State River: Wabash River 🌊
• State Stone: Salem Limestone ⛏️
• State Song: "On the Banks of the Wabash, Far Away" 🎶
• State Motto: "The Crossroads of America" ⚙️

How prevalent is the practice of scattering cremated ashes or cremains in Indiana?

The practice of scattering ashes has become increasingly popular in Indiana, reflecting a broader national trend toward cremation and personalized memorials. While specific statistics on ash scattering in Indiana are limited, cremation has seen a significant rise.

In 2020, the cremation rate in Indiana was approximately 58%, aligning with national trends. With this increase, more families are seeking meaningful and personalized ways to honor their loved ones, including scattering ashes in designated gardens, cemeteries, or natural locations.

Indiana law permits the scattering of ashes on private property (with the owner’s consent), on uninhabited public land, and in waterways, provided the remains are finely processed. Several cemeteries have developed designated scattering gardens to accommodate this growing preference.

Examples of Ash Scattering Gardens in Indiana

In Indiana, several cemeteries and organizations offer scattering gardens—designated areas where families can respectfully scatter the cremated remains of their loved ones. Here are some notable options:

Rose Hill Cemetery's Scatter Garden

• Location: Bloomington, IN
• Description: Rose Hill Cemetery features a dedicated scatter garden where families can legally scatter cremains. Names of the deceased can be memorialized on a granite monument within the garden.
• Website: Rose Hill Cemetery

Concordia Cemetery Gardens

• Location: Fort Wayne, IN
• Description: Established in 1850, Concordia Cemetery Gardens provides a cremation scattering garden among other options like above-ground cremation niches and traditional burial sites.
• Website: Concordia Cemetery

Violett Cemetery's Cremation Garden

Location: Goshen, IN
Description: Violett Cemetery offers a cremation garden that provides families with options such as ground burial in a designated space, placement of ashes in a columbarium niche, or scattering in a dedicated area.
Website: Violett Cemetery

Maplewood Cemetery's "The Woods" Cremation Garden

• Location: Anderson, IN
• Description: We have been serving the area since 1902 and provide pre-planning services, cremation services, monuments and more in Anderson, IN. Madison County’s largest traditional cemetery contains 96 acres of developed land and another 40 acres of farmland yet to be developed, guaranteeing future generations will have the opportunity to memorialize loved ones in an atmosphere of beauty, dignity and history. Maplewood Cemetery features "The Woods," a cremation garden that includes a scattering option, providing a serene environment for families to scatter their loved ones' ashes.
• Website: Maplewood Cemetery

Farmstead Scattering Garden

• Location: Mail-in service, Pennsylvania
• Description: Farmstead Scattering Garden offers a unique option for those who prefer a remote and tranquil resting place. Families can mail in cremated remains, and upon arrival, the ashes will be respectfully scattered on a working farm. This service allows families to customize their scattering experience, choosing a specific location and ceremony details without the need to travel.
• Website: Farmstead Scattering Garden
• Contact: Call or text (814) 450-5432 for more information.

When considering scattering ashes in Indiana, it's essential to consult with the chosen location or service provider to understand their specific policies and any necessary permissions. Additionally, always ensure that the scattering process aligns with local regulations and respects the environment.

Are there mail-in options for ash scattering services?

Yes! If you are looking for a way to celebrate your loved one, consider a customizable mail-in ash scattering ceremony with Farmstead Scattering Garden. We’ve simplified the process by offering a mail-in service. With Farmstead Scattering, you can mail cremated remains, and upon arrival, we’ll honor your loved one by scattering their ashes on our working farm. With our services, you can choose a specific location and customize the scattering ceremony.

Visit our service page or call or text us at (814) 450-5432 to learn more.