So I decided to seek true information. I phoned the sexton of several crematoriums asking to be allowed to watch the procedure. In the early 1950’s this was considered morbid and most unusual, so I had no success. My frustration was told to a friend Marjory who said, “Are you sure you really want to do this?” “Definitely,” I replied. “Well……” she said, “I know the sexton at Remuera. Would you like me to phone him?” “Oh if you would, that would be really great,” I said. This she did and a meeting with the sexton was arranged for me at the crematorium. He asked if I was sure I really wanted this and why. Eventually I was taken to the door of the space where the coffins come down from the above funeral service area onto a very tall trolley on wheels. The sexton pointed to the ovens and explained that they are heated to a set heat, and then the coffins are put in. He was expecting me to leave then, but I asked to see the whole procedure. So I waited and saw the switches at the back of the ovens. Then I watched a coffin come gently down and rest on the trolley which was pushed over to the heated oven, pushed in the the door firmly closed. The heat was intense and I saw the gas flames leaping inside the oven through the door. As we were talking, I saw an operator move to a little trap door in the oven and quickly look inside. I asked if I could also do that but I can’t remember for sure whether he allowed me to do so. However, I do have a firm memory of it - maybe from what he told me - I’m not sure. He showed me some ashes, very carefully named and ready for their casket to be given to relatives. There were no solid bone pieces, just dust. I felt very privileged to be allowed to witness this and I left feeling really happy that my experience had put my mind to rest. Blessings to you Queenie. |
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