Treasure hunt memorials – why you should do it

A loved-one doesn’t just exist in themselves and the people they loved, they exist in the places they have been and the memories those places created throughout the years.

A treasure hunt memorial may sound an odd description of a way to honour the memory of a loved-one, but it is in fact one of the deepest ways of saying goodbye, bringing up tales both poignant and amusing, and allowing friends and family of all ages to enjoy paying their respects.

What does it involve?

Organisationally, very little. If we want to be ultra-traditional we can create an old-style treasure map, written with a flourish of a fountain pen, and made to look crumpled and ancient with a few drops of tea.

Generally, though, people will either whizz one up on a computer or hand-draw the map and copy it.

What should be on the treasure hunt memorial map?

Basically, we are taking people on a walk, as short or as long as we like, which will take in key places in the deceased’s life.

The requirement then is for an easy to follow route, while the reverse side may contain snippets about their life, possibly a quote or two about them, maybe even some pictures of the person concerned by family youngsters.

What makes the treasure?

Everyone has items that define their life, be it books, records, clothes, jewellery, or whatever. Such items can be placed at markers on the map for people to find. Possibly there will be a description of the item and its meaning.

Another idea is to travel the course as a group and one person act as the narrator, explaining the significance of each ‘treasure’.

And at the end?

Give your treasure seekers a small keepsake of the deceased’s life – a picture perhaps, or a favourite poem.

The true treasure when a loved-one leaves us is our memories. But we can forever hold this image to our hearts.