VPRS 19139 Certificates of Rights of Burial

Full description

This series consists of a volume of certificates recording sales of burial plots (also known as rights of interment) at Smythesdale Cemetery (VA 5070). Each certificate is split into two panels, separated by a perforated tear-off line.  The certificate (right panel) was typically detached from a stub along a perforated tear-off line and held by the person as proof of their purchase, while the corresponding stub (left panel) remained in the custody of the cemetery.

On the left panel, the details of the plot and purchaser were recorded under the following headings:

-    Name of Grantee
-    Address
-    Sum Paid
-    Order, Date
-    Ground [number], Feet by, Feet wide
-    Denomination
-    Grave Number, Row
-    Compartment Number
-    Date

At the bottom of the panel, space is provided for the cemetery Trustees to sign. 

The right panel, known as the Burial Right document, was likely torn off along perforated line provided to the purchaser of the plot once payment was received. It recorded the purchaser’s name, sum paid, details of the plot and terms and conditions.