Marion Cemetery Receiving Vault

The Marion Cemetery Receiving Vault is a limestone building with Gothic elements including pointed arches, iron gates, and a slate roof on the cemetery grounds. It served as a secure underground chamber for temporarily storing the deceased.

Construction occurred between 1875 and 1924 under architect D.W. Gibbs to provide secure storage for the deceased during winter months. This was necessary because frozen ground made burials impossible.

The receiving vault shows how funerals were conducted in the 19th century and how people expressed grief through building design. The Gothic forms with pointed arches were a symbol of solemn respect and permanence.

The vault is located within Marion Cemetery on the grounds near Delaware Avenue and can be viewed during cemetery visits. The best time to visit is during warmer months when the cemetery is fully accessible.

President Warren G. Harding and his wife Florence were held in this vault under military guard from 1923 until 1927. This was an unusual honor for a storage facility for the dead.

Location: Marion

Architectural style: Gothic Revival

Made from material: limestone

GPS coordinates: 40.57611,-83.12208

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:08