Coffin Club

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Portland, Oregon (July 23, 2022) - 65

Coffin Club, Portland, Oregon (2022) - 4

Coffin Club is a unique and innovative concept that has gained popularity in various parts of the world. It is a community-based organization that brings together individuals, often seniors, to engage in the craft of building their own coffins. Coffin Clubs serve multiple purposes: they provide a space for social interaction, demystify the process of death, and offer a cost-effective alternative to purchasing commercially available coffins.

History

The first Coffin Club was founded in New Zealand by Katie Williams, a retired palliative care nurse, in 2010. Williams recognized the therapeutic value in people confronting their mortality in a supportive and practical environment. The idea quickly spread, and Coffin Clubs began appearing in other countries, including the United Kingdom and Australia, adapting to the cultural and social nuances of each location.

Activities

At a Coffin Club, members typically meet on a weekly basis to work on their coffins. These gatherings are not only about the physical act of building a coffin but also serve as an opportunity for members to discuss death, dying, and bereavement openly. Workshops may include guidance on legal and practical aspects of funeral planning, alongside the woodworking activities.

Benefits

Coffin Clubs offer several benefits:

• Cost Savings: Building one's own coffin can significantly reduce the financial burden associated with funeral expenses.
• Personalization: Members can customize their coffins, reflecting their personality and life through decorations and design.
• Community and Support: These clubs provide a sense of community and mutual support, helping members to feel less isolated in their thoughts about mortality.
• Education: By discussing end-of-life planning, members become better informed about their options and rights.

Challenges

Despite their benefits, Coffin Clubs face challenges. These include societal taboos around death, securing workshop space, and finding volunteers skilled in carpentry. Additionally, regulatory hurdles related to funeral goods and services can impact their operations.

Impact

Coffin Clubs have had a profound impact on their members and the broader community. They challenge the traditional funeral industry by promoting a more personalized and less commercial approach to death. Moreover, they contribute to a cultural shift towards more open conversations about death and dying.

See Also

• Death Cafe
• Green burial
• Home funeral

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