LiveNOW’s Andrew Craft checks in with FOX 5 Atlanta’s Deidra Dukes as mourners continue to visit Jimmy Carter as he lies in repose at the Carter Center in Georgia.
WASHINGTON — Former President Jimmy Carter died on Dec. 29, 2024, at the age of 100, prompting a state funeral in Washington and plans for burial in his beloved town of Plains, Georgia, the Carter Center announced.
As the country prepares to honor its 39th president, Carter’s death adds another bankruptcy to the history of presidential tombs that stretches from Mount Vernon to elegant presidential libraries.
FILE – Mourners see the casket of former President Jimmy Carter as it rests at the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum on Jan. 6, 2025, in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo via Alex Brandon-Pool/Getty Images)
History: The graves of U. S. presidents have evolved over time, reflecting changes in traditions and the way we commemorate our country’s leaders.
Early presidents chose to reside on the estates of their family circle, a practice that began with George Washington at Mount Vernon and continued with fellow Virginians Thomas Jefferson at Monticello and James Madison at Montpelier.
However, the 20th century saw an evolution toward presidential libraries as the final resting place of fashionable presidents, beginning with Herbert Hoover in West Branch, Iowa. These establishments serve as records repositories and museums, celebrating the lives and legacy of the leaders I honor.
Today, presidents have the option of being buried in their presidential libraries, on their historic estate of relatives, or in private family plots, and each option offers a unique way to honor and honor their contributions to the nation.
In figures:
First presidents (1-10):
Mid-19th Century Presidents (11-20)
Late 19th-Early 20th Century Presidents (21-30)
Presidents of the Modern Era (31-39)
Source: National Archives information, Presidential Library documentation, Arlington National Cemetery Historical Archives, Baaron’s Hill Presidential Burial Sites Historical Database, and Carter Center announcements.