On October 20 and 21 Sabine Hill State Historic Site in Elizabethton, TN will present “Death Comes to Sabine Hill”, a unique event designed to resurrect many of the forgotten traditions associated with death and mourning in early America. Visitors will experience these mysterious customs firsthand through special after-hours tours of the historic Taylor House.
Two centuries ago, our ancestors perceived death and mourning quite differently than we do. Today, we push through the funeral process as quickly as possible. Those who came before us, however, took a much more intimate approach. Disease, war, infant mortality, and other causes meant that death was a persistent companion especially before the days of modern medical advancement. Prior to the advent of funeral homes, the process of preparing a deceased family member for burial was carried out at home, and all manner of traditions, superstitions, and ceremonies that had been practiced in the old world continued here in the new.
The candlelight tours will occur on Friday, October 20 and Saturday, October 21, and offer guests a chance to experience the historic Taylor House after dark. Visitors will pay their respects to the deceased at the wake and meet historically dressed interpreters throughout the house who will talk about the funeral customs and mourning rituals of days gone by.
As the tour progresses outdoors, guests will visit with the coffin maker, grave digger, professional mourner, and resurrectionist as they share the professions associated with death & funerals in Early America.
These tours deal with subject matter that may be too sensitive for younger visitors. Parental discretion is advised.
Tour times are 6:00, 6:30, 7:00, 7:30, 8:00, & 8:30 pm each night. Admission is $14.00 per individual. Pre-registration is required. Tickets can be purchased here.
