Why Are Foot Panels Used in Caskets?

Caskets contain both head and foot panels.

A casket, or coffin, is made up of five different panels. The bottom, two sides, the head and the foot panel. The lid is attached to a casket to make it complete.

Function

A completed coffin.

Sometimes people are confused and believe that a head or foot panel is a place where the deceased's head or feet rests. It is actually part of the completed casket, however. The function of a foot panel is to provide a completely enclosed container for the deceased person.

Foot Panels

Foot panels are a component of the inside of the casket. They are identical to the head panel and made to allow the lid to rest securely. The foot panel is known as a body panel, as are the head and side panels.

History

The coffin industry began in the U.S. in the early part of the 19th century. At that time coffin makers were known as undertakers, and they often operated a town's furniture store, where they made coffins as well. Today, fewer coffins are being made due to a sharp increase in the number of people who choose cremation over burial.

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References

• Quizlet: Caskets Grande
• Casket Info: The History of the Modern Casket

Resources

• Assembly Mag: How a Casket Is Assembled