State Guide: Ash Scattering in Delaware

If you are thinking of scattering ashes in the state of Delaware, it may be helpful to know the official symbols:

• State Flower: Peach Blossom 🌸
• State Tree: American Holly 🌳
• State Bird: Delaware Blue Hen 🐦
• State River: Delaware River 🌊
• State Gemstone: Sillimanite 💎
• State Song: "Our Delaware" 🎶
• State Motto: "Liberty and Independence" 🤝

How prevalent is the practice of scattering cremated ashes or cremains in Delaware?

The practice of scattering ashes has become increasingly popular in Delaware, reflecting a broader national trend toward cremation and personalized memorials. While specific statistics on ash scattering in Delaware are limited, cremation has seen a significant rise.

In 2020, the cremation rate in Delaware was approximately 55%, with projections showing continued growth. With this increase, more families are seeking meaningful and personalized ways to honor their loved ones, including scattering ashes in designated gardens, cemeteries, or natural locations.

Delaware law permits the scattering of ashes on private property (with the owner’s consent), in waterways following state environmental regulations, and in national or state parks with proper authorization. Many families choose to scatter ashes along the Delaware River, in the Atlantic Ocean, or within state parks.

However, it is important to check with local authorities regarding any restrictions, especially in protected areas.

Examples of Ash Scattering Gardens in Delaware

In Delaware, several cemeteries and organizations offer scattering gardens—designated areas where families can respectfully scatter the cremated remains of their loved ones. Here are some notable options:

Silverbrook Cemetery & Memorial Park

• Location: Wilmington, DE
• Description: Since its inception in 1898, Silverbrook Cemetery has been servicing families of all faiths and religions.  We are a family owned and operated organization and have been since our founding.  We offer a variety of final disposition options in a beautifully serene setting located just outside the city of Wilmington. Founded by the White family, Silverbrook is run today by fourth and fifth generation owners, Paul L White Jr. and Paul L White III
• Website: Silverbrook Cemetery

All Saints Cemetery

• Location: Wilmington, DE
• Description: Catholic Cemeteries, Inc. (CCI), an agency of the Diocese of Wilmington, is a non-profit organization. Our primary objective is to assist in the corporal work of mercy, burial of the dead, by operating and maintaining regional cemeteries and assisting parishes with their own cemeteries. We provide assistance with the practical details of arranging for burial, pre-need planning, and memorializing. We seek to serve all Catholics in the Diocese by providing facilities and services needed for the respectful burial of the faithful departed. We recognize and accommodate individual and family circumstances, local customs and financial position. We also provide a preferential option for those deceased Catholics whose families are unable to financially provide for the final disposition of their beloved deceased.
• Website: All Saints Cemetery

Gracelawn Memorial Park

• Location: New Castle, DE
• Description: In 1950, Gracelawn Memorial Park established Maine’s first crematory, and in the early 1960’s, Gracelawn constructed Maine’s first community mausoleum. For decades, Gracelawn Memorial Park has maintained its standards by providing families of central Maine with comprehensive cemetery and crematory services of the highest quality. Today we continue our original quality services but have also added cemetery flower services, facility rentals, interment services, as well as pre-arrangement services and a pet cemetery.
• Website: Gracelawn Memorial Park

Farmstead Scattering Garden

• Location: Mail-in service, Pennsylvania
• Description: Farmstead Scattering Garden offers a unique option for those who prefer a remote and tranquil resting place. Families can mail in cremated remains, and upon arrival, the ashes will be respectfully scattered on a working farm. This service allows families to customize their scattering experience, choosing a specific location and ceremony details without the need to travel.
• Website: Farmstead Scattering Garden
• Contact: Call or text (814) 450-5432 for more information.

Are there mail-in options for ash scattering services?

Yes! If you are looking for a way to celebrate your loved one, consider a customizable mail-in ash scattering ceremony with Farmstead Scattering Garden. We’ve simplified the process by offering a mail-in service. With Farmstead Scattering, you can mail cremated remains, and upon arrival, we’ll honor your loved one by scattering their ashes on our working farm. With our services, you can choose a specific location and customize the scattering ceremony.

Visit our service page or call or text us at (814) 450-5432 to learn more.