Grave ownership
 

In the 1950's my great great uncle purchased 6 adjoining grave plots (I have the original papework).

Buried in them are

1 himself
2 his sister and brother in law (my great grandparents)
3 his brother and sister in law
4 his nephew and their wife
5 his nephew
6 his niece (my grandmother)

Great great uncle never married and had no children.

Does the ownership of the plots transfer to anyone?

I've posted this in the wrong section, please can it be moved.

Thanks

I've moved it to "Family History General Discussion".

Thanks Kate

I don't know if it passes but you might be able to claim it.

I know of someone who purchased 2 or 3 adjoining plots but there are no records of a burial in one. A relative has quizzed the cemetery to make sure it is empty and the cemetery indicated the relative could sell the grave if they wished, although I think all relatives of that same level of closeness could claim a share of the sale. Proof of descent or next of kin would probably be needed first though.

It should say on the original paperwork. My father's grave is only leased, as it were! It reverts to the local authority after 30 years. My grandparents' grave is owned in perpetuity by their heirs and successors, which is me at the moment!

OC

I'll have to check the deed but I don't think a time was specified.

If no end date then I would assume it is outright possession in perpetuity.

OC

Having finally managed to find the original paperwork for the graves they were bought in perpetuity. I've spoken to the council and found out what we need to do to get ownership transferred. This process is going to be slightly more complicated than it would had this been sorted out when the original owner died in 1967!

OC

That seems a very short time for a grave - I think my parents is 75 years after the final burial.