The Charlton Heston Gun Legend: Buried Myths and Facts

The notion that Charlton Heston was buried with a gun in his hand is a popular urban legend circulating on the internet. This article aims to debunk the myth and provide accurate information based on historical records and verified sources.

Refuting the Myth

Unfortunately and ironically, Heston could not be buried with his gun because of state law and because he had promised the gun to the National Rifle Association (NRA) for auction. According to the [1], there is no truth to the claim that Heston was buried with a gun in his hand. Heston passed away in 2008 at the age of 84, and he was cremated, not buried.

Official Information

According to a statement from Heston's family, he requested not to be buried with a gun. The [2] further clarifies that there is no evidence or record suggesting that he was buried with a gun or any firearm during the funeral.

Source of the Myth

The source of the myth is unclear, but it likely persists due to the cultural significance of Charlton Heston as a political activist and his association with the NRA. Heston was a strong advocate for the Second Amendment and was honored for his contributions to the NRA [3]. However, Heston specifically requested that the gun he had promised to the NRA be auctioned off, contradicting the idea of burying it with him.

Official Statements and Verification

Some of the information on the internet, including the claims about Charlton Heston being buried with a gun, may not be based on accurate facts. For instance, one response by Heston's reputed followers, and referred to as "HTH and HM", suggests that the information is not known to them. However, the mortician who sealed the coffin and Heston's heirs would likely be the only individuals who can provide definitive answers, but even they may not know the truth due to the passage of time.

Conclusion

The myth that Charlton Heston was buried with a gun in his hand is nothing more than an urban legend. It is based on mistaken reports and an overzealous interpretation of his political activism. In reality, Heston was cremated, and no firearm was present during the ceremony. The NRA gun, which was a symbol of his advocacy, would be auctioned off as per his wishes.

References

[1]

ABC News. Charlton Heston, Former NRA Head, Dies at 84. 5 April 2008.

[2]

Hollywood Reporter. Charlton Heston Dead at 84, Ex-NRA Head. 5 April 2008.

[3]

NRA. Charlton Heston: A Colossal Goliath for the Second Amendment. 2 January 2021.