Throughout history, people have surrounded death with custom and ritual. 18th century Americans were reconciled to death at an early age; epidemics, disease, accidents, childbirth and other causes of mortality took their endless toll. Then, as now, burial and funeral rituals were important not only to honor the dead, but also to comfort the living.
On November 10 from 2:00 to 4:00, the museum will take a look at the many and varied funeral customs of early America. The program includes a presentation as well as a display of artifacts. Visitors may also view demonstrations of 18th century open-hearth cooking featuring authentic early American techniques and recipes and receive a tour of the fully furnished c1740 farmhouse. Admission is $5 ages 13 and older; $3 ages 3-12 and free age 2 and under.