LeMoyne Crematory facts for kids
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LeMoyne Crematory
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 Location in Pennsylvania
Location in the United States
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| Location | Jct. of Redstone Rd. and Elm St., NW corner, North Franklin Township, Washington, Pennsylvania |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1876 |
| Architect | Dye, John |
| NRHP reference No. | 96000078 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | February 16, 1996 |
The LeMoyne Crematory was the very first building in the United States designed for cremation. Dr. Francis Julius LeMoyne had it built in 1876. It stands on his own land in North Franklin Township, near Washington, Pennsylvania. This brick building is about 20 by 30 feet and has one story.
The first cremation happened here on December 6, 1876. Dr. LeMoyne believed that cremation was a cleaner way to handle bodies. He thought it would help stop drinking water from getting dirty. After 41 more cremations, including Dr. LeMoyne himself in 1879, the crematory closed in 1901. Dr. LeMoyne's remains are buried at this historic site.
Why the Crematory Was Built
Dr. Francis Julius LeMoyne had a strong belief that cremation was a much cleaner way to deal with bodies after death. He was worried about how traditional burials might affect drinking water. He thought that cremation could prevent the spread of diseases.
So, he decided to build this special structure in 1876. It was the first of its kind in the entire country.
First Cremations at LeMoyne
The very first cremation at the LeMoyne Crematory happened on December 6, 1876. The person cremated was Baron Joseph Henry Louis Charles De Palm. He was a noble from Bavaria.
After this first event, 41 more cremations took place there. Dr. LeMoyne himself was the third person to be cremated at his own facility in 1879. The last cremation at the crematory was on November 28, 1900. The crematory officially closed its doors in 1901.
LeMoyne Crematory Today
The LeMoyne Crematory is recognized as a very important historical site. In 1953, the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission placed a special historical marker there. This marker tells visitors about the crematory's importance.
The building was added to the National Register of Historic Places on February 16, 1996. This means it is officially protected as a historic landmark. The Washington County History & Landmarks Foundation also calls it a historic public landmark.
You can still find the crematory in the same spot today. It is located off South Main Street. The Washington County Historical Society sometimes offers special tours of the site.
