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[Some cholera graveyards in western Norway]
1Avdeling for mikrobiologi og immunologi, Gades Institutt, Universitetet i Bergen.
Summary
Norwegian cholera regulations from 1832 mandated specific burial practices. Historical analysis of the 1848-49 epidemic in Western Norway shows these cholera graveyard guidelines were generally followed.
Area of Science:
- Public Health History
- Epidemiology
- Mortuary Practices
Context:
- The study examines the implementation of Norwegian provisional regulations from 1832 concerning cholera victim burials.
- Focuses on the 1848-49 cholera epidemic in Western Norway.
Purpose:
- To investigate the adherence to specific graveyard directions for cholera victims during the 1848-49 epidemic.
- To document the establishment and use of cholera graveyards in Western Norway.
Summary:
- Initial burials in Bergen used ordinary graveyards, shifting to a dedicated cholera graveyard for 549 victims.
- Three cholera graveyards were established on Sotra island, with additional planned graveyards in the region.
- The study found general compliance with the regulations for cholera graveyards.
Impact:
- Highlights the practical application of public health directives during historical epidemics.
- Demonstrates the lasting physical reminders of past cholera outbreaks in Western Norway's landscape.