State Guide: Ash Scattering in Rhode Island
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If you are thinking of scattering ashes in the state of Rhode Island, it may be helpful to know the official symbols:
- State Flower: Violet đ¸
- State Tree: Red Maple đ
- State Bird: Rhode Island Red đ
- State River: Blackstone River đ
- State Stone: Cumberlandite âď¸
- State Song: "Rhode Island, It's for Me" đś
- State Motto: "Hope" â
How prevalent is the practice of scattering cremated ashes or cremains in Rhode Island?
The practice of scattering ashes has become increasingly popular in Rhode Island, reflecting a broader national trend toward cremation and personalized memorials. While specific statistics on ash scattering in Rhode Island are limited, cremation has seen a significant rise.
In 2020, the cremation rate in Rhode Island was approximately 55%, with projections showing continued growth. 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.
Rhode Island law permits the scattering of ashes on private property (with the ownerâs consent), in public parks with proper authorization, and in bodies of water following federal regulations. Several cemeteries and organizations have developed designated scattering gardens to accommodate this growing preference.
It is important to review local laws and regulations before scattering ashes in any location to ensure compliance and respect for the environment.
Examples of Ash Scattering Gardens in Rhode Island
In Rhode Island, several cemeteries and organizations offer scattering gardensâdesignated areas where families can respectfully scatter the cremated remains of their loved ones. Here are some notable options:
Swan Point Cemetery Scattering Garden
- Location: Providence, RI
- Description: Established in 1846, Swan Point Cemetery is a meticulously maintained, 200-acre garden cemetery located on the East Side in Providence. Our beautiful grounds and buildings offer a peaceful place for visitors to seek inspiration, quietly reflect, or commune with nature. Listed on the National Register of Historic Sites, Swan Point is an actively managed, full service cemetery open to people of every faith and heritage. Whether in the preplanning stage or when there is an immediate need for our assistance, our compassionate counselors take special care to be certain that each familiesâ needs, desires, and religious traditions are met.
- Website: Swan Point Cemetery
Island Cemetery
- Location: Newport, RI
- Description: The Island Cemetery, part of the early movement in America towards landscaped, park-like cemeteries, was established in 1848 and is located in the heart of Newport, Rhode Island. Â Listed as the first cemetery under Rhode Island Historical Cemeteries, it is now the only active cemetery in Newport. Island Cemetery, on the National Register of Historic Sites. Developed as a âgarden cemeteryâ in 1848, Island Cemetery recently obtained accreditation from Arbnet and the Newport Tree Conservancy (NTC) as one of Newportâs city arboreta. With this accreditation, the cemetery is eligible for support from the NTC and the City of Newport in its efforts to increase the tree canopy in the open spaces of Newport.
- Website: Island Cemetery Newport
Quaker Burial Ground Memorial Garden
- Location: Portsmouth, RI
- Description: A serene location affiliated with a Quaker meetinghouse, providing a respectful space for cremation scattering. The Portsmouth Friends Cemetary is located on the church grounds just behind the meetinghouse building. Those buried in the cemetary all have connections to the church, and some stones date back to right before the meetinghouse was constructed in 1700.
- Website: Portsmouth Friends Meeting
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.
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. Weâve simplified the process by offering a mail-in service. With Farmstead Scattering, you can mail cremated remains, and upon arrival, weâll 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.