The Sesquicentennial of Modern Cremation

In 2026, CANA marks the 150th anniversary of the first modern cremation in North America.

In 1876, Baron de Palm was cremated at the LeMoyne Crematory in Washington, Pennsylvania, and the rest is history! To celebrate this history, CANA is planning articles and activities taking place now through 2026 to mark cremation's sesquicentennial.

This anniversary is more than a look back—it’s a unique moment for the profession to reflect on 150 years of change and envision what comes next. By participating, you help amplify a conversation that honors our history while advancing the future of death care. 

150 Years of Cremation History

Celebrate 150 years of cremation with a concise, downloadable research bundle created to support accurate, credible storytelling. This curated collection provides historical context, key data, and timelines for sesquicentennial coverage, education, and content creation. Ideal for reporters, educators, and influencers, the bundle helps ensure your work is grounded in trusted research. Download and reference this research to inform your coverage and strengthen your voice.

Your Story Could be Here

You’re invited to participate by contributing your own cremation history and promoting this occasion on your own platforms. Be sure to tag us on social media or email us so we can share in the occasion — you may just see your story in one of our publications!

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If the founders of modern cremation could see today’s industry, what do you think would surprise them most?

I think they’d be surprised by how much resistance to change still exists despite overwhelming evidence of evolving consumer expectations. At the same time, they’d be encouraged by how creative, mission-driven and resilient funeral professionals remain. The profession has the heart—it just needs to fully embrace new operating models.

 — Foundation Partners Group CEO John D. Smith

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I work at a family owned and operated funeral home/crematory and pet crematory. I work beside my grandpa, my mom and my aunt. My grandpa John Bayliff was on the CANA board years ago, he was the first in our area to have a crematory. Our first crematory was put in in 1979 and started operating in 1980 and the pet unit was placed in 1990.

Growing up, I have always watched what my grandpa would do in the crematory and just all over the funeral home, so when I turned 18 in 1998, I started operating both units. My grandpa had seen my passion for the cremation services we offered and entrusted me to start managing the crematories in 2010. I know both machines inside and out and have even learned to fix them when need be.

I know that the cremation population is growing and there are so many different options that can be offered to families, so I enjoy learning those and bringing them to our local families.

 — Angela Knotts, Bayliff & Son Funeral Home, Inc. Pet Services Coordinator

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