Roadside memorials from a geographical perspective

Abstract

Roadside memorials are frequently visible in the Netherlands. Such a memorial marks a previously anonymous roadside, which is transformed into a place with special, even sacred, meanings to the bereaved, as it is the place where their loved one has died. We look at these memorials from a geographical point of view, i.e. we discuss the memorials as meaningful places. How do these places look, how do they function and what do they mean? We created a database consisting of information on more than 300 memorials, including photographs of about 150 of these and we interviewed 24 bereaved who established a memorial. The exact geographical location of the fatal traffic accident turns out to be crucial as it marks the ultimate transformative event that has taken place: from life to death. Temporary memorials are mainly established by friends, whereas parents construct more permanent ones. We argue that roadside memorials are part of wider communication networks. They provide a place for the bereaved to communicate not only with the deceased, but also with the outside world about what they consider a ‘bad death’. Consequently, the establishment, maintenance and communication possibilities of roadside memorials constitute a way to give meaning to an otherwise senseless death.