The Columbarium: The Last Place in San Francisco To Be Buried | The Regulars

Built in 1897 by British architect Bernard J. Cahill, the Columbarium is the last place inside the city limits where you can still be interred. Starting in 1910, ordinances were passed that prohibited cremations or further burials in the city, and the Columbarium was abandoned altogether in 1934.
Emmitt Watson spent nearly half of his life tending to the Columbarian and its over 65,000 residents, as well as holding tours and services. “I like making a sad heart smile,” he says. “In return, I got another friend. And we all need friends. I got tons of them.”
Credit: Erin Brethauer
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[@sheilatorres4802]

Somewhere about 20 or so years ago, I had an apt in SF, but was early, so I came across the Columbarium. As luck would have it, I came across Mr. Watson, who gave me a personal tour. What a kind man he was. I will never forget him. God bless him abundantly!

[@jolist3721]

What a wonderful person he is, the world needs more people like him in it. 🇦🇺

[@michaelm5601]

This gentleman is a true Servant of God, I would be so happy if someone walked past my grave and say good morning every day. When he is is in that paint can, I hope people say good morning to him every day………..

[@michaelbedinger4121]

What a fine man! God bless him, and his work. Thank you.

[@AbbeyNormal1994]

I like how he says "Hi" to everyone

[@philbarone4603]

This was awesome! Thank you sir.

[@JoannaLamont333]

What a lovely man.

[@LawyerCalhoun1]

Sir, you are a good and wise man.

[@mikearreola2609]

He is truly a good man. A unique man and a genuine character. Fun person to talk to.

[@AprilMartinChartrandMS]

I went there today to video tape and photograph the outside of the building. Now I want to get cremated there. So, time to save up money for the final resting place. I love it there... it is so peaceful and I love the beautiful building and grounds.

[@longdikhairyballs7558]

we need more men in the world like this

[@suzannezethner8180]

God bless you sir.

[@mt.shasta6097]

Bless you, Mr. Watson.

[@anthonytedeschi6995]

Thank you for your work God bless you

[@cynthiaennis3107]

Sweet man, Emmitt! And a beautiful building from another time!

[@largol33t1]

Too humble, he wants to be buried in a paint bucket. I'd at least polish it up and put a nice gold plaque with his name on it. Nothing wrong with that, it's what his wish is. I've heard of people buried in their favorite cars too or with their favorite pet in their casket. Hey, the dog or cat was a friend til the very end, it's nice that they want to be buried with their pet.

[@patriciaschuster1371]

Blessed person.

[@8359563]

Ty for what you do, you are a wonderful man.

[@marryellenmonahan5585]

Wise man.

[@paulyosef7550]

good man

[@muzikizfun]

His philosophy about passing is the same as mine. Don't waste time worrying about it. Leave the world a little better because you were in it!

[@vivianzickerman302]

Your Great love your ❤

[@tonyshapiro5610]

Very Cool

[@largol33t1]

You know, I would feel like doing that too if I worked as an overseer for a columbarium or graveyard. I'd be greeting the most visited names as if they were alive. I'd say good morning and goodbye too. It just feels polite even though I know I'm talking to the dead.

[@spencehudson1475]

Looking for someone to take a photo of my greatgrandfather’s niche interned there in 1903..

[@beatrix1120]

Looks like a great place to be put to rest imo

[@cynthiaennis3107]

I don’t think the dead really care...I think their sprits must think it’s nice, but I’m sure they have other things to be doing!