Historical Background

During the prolonged drought in 1998 a linchpin dropped from a previously unknown underground crypt leaving a hole from which the crypt could be viewed. The linchpin in this type of construction serves to secure the curved section of roof making up the crypt. Without the linchpin the roof could collapse at any time.

The decision at the time, undoubtedly from a public safety perspective, was to use a backhoe to cave in the crypt and then fill it with soil. Crypts are very rare in Australia, particularly in public cemeteries, and represent a unique example of the funerary arts and stone masonry skills in use at the time of early history of Ipswich and Queensland.

The practice of constructing underground vaults was not common in Australia and those that were constructed were part of a European tradition of settlers and religious orders.

It is believed there are five vaults/crypts within the Ipswich General Cemetery. 

Examining the available information on early burial practices spotlights the importance of preserving the underground vaults/crypts at Ipswich General Cemetery and provides a prima facie reason for commencing a project to complete this.