About Hearses

Hearses are unlike any other type of automobile. They are made for the specific purpose of transporting the coffins of the deceased. These are typically used to bring bodies to a cemetery, church or crematorium. They are built, both in terms of size and style, with this purpose in mind. Hearses have changed over time and look differently from one culture to another, but all are used for generally the same purpose.

History

The first hearses were horse-drawn wagons. They were usually enclosed by carved, wooden panels. Other times the walls were made of glass, in order to showcase the coffin. Motorized hearses began to be used in the early 1900s. Funeral directors realized that the motorized hearses, though much more expensive than horse-drawn models, would pay for themselves. This was as a result of their ability to move much faster, allowing for more funerals in less time. It took some time for the motorized hearses to be considered dignified enough for a funeral. By the early 1920s, motorized hearses were accepted and popularly used. Early on, some hearses were also used as ambulances. This dual use for the hearse was practiced in the United States, mostly in rural areas, until the late '70s, when stricter federal guidelines prohibited this arrangement.

Styles/Types

Most hearses are made by customizing luxury vehicles. In North America, most hearses are modified Lincolns and Cadillacs. In Europe, most hearses are made from Mercedes, Jaguars, Opels and Volvos. The limousine style is most popular in Europe (especially England), while the landau style (simulated convertible) is more popular in America. Further, European hearses tend to have more glass than American hearses, and tend to leave their windows unobstructed and untinted. This gives a better view of the casket within. Japanese hearses tend to either be very similar to American style, or they are ornate affairs, decorated to look like a small Buddhist temple or shrine. Recently motorcycles with sidecar hearses have become popular in America, primarily for the funerals of motorcyclists.

Function

Hearses are used to transport the caskets. They are necessary because of the large size of caskets, which would not fit into regular sized vehicles. They are also used to maintain the solemn nature of the event for which they are used. For a short period of time, some hearses were built to transport friends and family along with the coffin, but this practice proved unpopular and was discontinued.

Famous Hearses

In 1938, the company Sayer & Scovill introduced the first landau style hearse. The hearse's roof was decorated by "s" shaped irons. This was inspired by the irons used to lower the tops on the first, horse-drawn carriage hearses. The symbol remains on hearses today. Perhaps the most famous hearse, and the one most sought after by collectors, is the 1959 Cadillac Miller Meteor. It is known for its unique style and ornate decoration. It is also notable as a result of its showing up in several feature films, including "Ghostbusters" and "Harold and Maude."

Hearse Enthusiasm

Hearses are collected all over the world by hearse enthusiasts. Some like the morbid nature of the vehicle, while others are drawn by the cultural significance. Others still like that they are rarer than most other types of cars. They are collected by both ordinary individuals and celebrities alike. Some celebrity hearse enthusiasts include the musicians Neil Young and Sam the Sham (lead singer of the Pharaohs), and NASCAR driver Tony Stewart. Late show host and car enthusiast Jay Leno is known to own at least one hearse, as well.

Resources

• Google Directory Hearse Enthusiasts Page