This important occupational history gives historical depth and significance to the practice of American funeral directing, predicated on beliefs dating back to 500B.C.

The book details the historical origins and the rise of American funeral undertaking from colonial to present times, describing the development of the modern funeral home and the growth of contemporary funeral service practices and organizations.

Co-authors Robert W. Habenstein and William M. Lamers have written a book that one hundred years from now will remain the key refrence work on how America cared for, memorialize, and disposed of her dead into the 21st century.

The Seventh Edition of the History of American Funeral Directing Contains updates to the two final chapters.