In many aspects, the history of paying homage to loved ones at cemeteries has a unique history.

On a particularly important date, recognition could be the image or wording on a headstone, placing the body to rest near a favorite tree or scenic vista, for a Jewish cemetery placing stones on a headstone when you visit, fresh or artificial flowers placed on a grave, at a mausoleum, or cremation niche.

In research conducted by journalist, Kate Wright, she states, “It’s pretty common to see a cheery arrangement of flowers at a cemetery. This practice sprouted thousands of years ago when ancient Greeks placed flowers on warriors’ graves. It was thought that if flowers grew on the grave, warriors had moved on and found happiness in the next world and they were sending a message to say so.”

However, with many cemeteries in select areas of the nation’s wintry snow belt region, an annual ritual occurs around the winter holidays.

It is the placement of a grave blanket over a loved one’s burial plot.

Generally, you will not find grave blankets in the nation’s warmer climates. There, they would quickly dry out and turn brown.

HISTORY AND HOW BLANKETS ARE MADE

So, how did grave blankets come into Michigan and other northern states’ existence?

Jeffrey Carroll of Rick’s Shed Greenhouse and Outdoor Furnishings in Aston, Pennsylvania cites, “Grave blankets are thought to be originated by the Scandinavians who first settled in the nation’s Midwest territory. The popularity of using grave blankets quickly spread. It is now a traditional practice during the holiday season, especially in northern towns or villages.”

Carroll continued, “Now as popular as hanging a wreath of pine, or decorating the Christmas tree, grave blankets provide a beautiful decoration for graveyards and make the stroll through the tombstones all the more beautiful. ”

Christmas trees and greenery producers commented families in the winter would place evergreen boughs on graves, a simple decoration to add color to a stark, white landscape where fresh flowers wouldn’t survive.

Grave blankets can be made of artificial materials. However, according to the National Christmas Tree Association and other growers, fresh grave blankets are more prevalent.

Tom Kuntze Sr. of Menominee County, Michigan, co-owns a family forest products firm that annually produces thousands of grave blankets using contracted employees assembling at multiple work sites.

Kuntze states, “Grave blankets come in two basic styles. One has a rectangular frame made of cedar strips, to which the boughs are tied with plastic string. The other has no wooden frame; instead, the boughs are lashed to a layer of chicken wire. Both types are around five feet long and 20 inches wide.”

Kuntze revealed several years ago his firm began making smaller grave blanket models for child grave sites and pet cemeteries.

Generally, grave blankets can be purchased from florists, garden stores, and select national retailers, community Christmas tree sales sites, as well as online.

You can make your own grave blanket with materials acquired from craft and hardware store retailers. Guidelines for creating and assembling a grave blanket can be found on YouTube videos and general websites.

Assembled retail prices tend to be in the $50 to slightly over $100.

CHECK FIRST WITH THE CEMETERY

Each cemetery, public, private, or military has rules and procedures of what can be placed on or near grave sites, as well as mausoleums. In addition, cite what materials can be used, the responsibility and maintenance of any memorial, and when it must be removed.

If your cemetery does not offer a telephone number or website, it is recommended you reach out to county or city offices for assistance with who to contact.

A GRAVE BLANKET IS FOR THE LIVING

During Michigan’s stark white and cold winter months a grave blanket’s placement can help the living feel less bleak in recalling a departed loved one.

Jeffrey D. Brasie is a retired health care CEO. He frequently writes historic feature stories and op-eds for various Michigan newspapers. As a Vietnam-era veteran, he served in the U.S. Navy and U.S. Naval Reserve. He served on the public affairs staff of the Secretary of the Navy. He grew up in Alpena and resides in suburban Detroit.