Herman-Grima House's Death and Mourning in New Orleans Tour

The Gallier Historic House Museum, 1132 Royal Street, will offer specialized tours that interpret post funeral habits of the 19th-century beginning Sept 29. Tours are offered weekdays (closed Wednesdays) at 10 and 11 a.m., noon, 1 and 2 p.m. and Saturdays (closed Sundays) at noon, 1, 2 and 3 p.m.

Grief descended upon the Gallier household in October 1866, when news arrived that patriarch James Gallier, Sr., and his second wife drowned at sea aboard the S.S. Evening Star. The passenger steamship, destined for New Orleans from New York, sank in a late-season hurricane off the coast of Georgia.

The Gallier Historic House Museum will be in mourning as we commemorate the death of the senior Galliers. During the Victorian era, almost every aspect of everyday life, from clothes to china, were changed to reflect the family’s grief. The front entry of the home was swathed in black crepe, as were mirrors and the deceased’s portrait. Clocks were stopped at the hour of death, and even children’s toys reflected the solemn mood. Displays of distinctive funeral attire and many Victorian mourning articles will provide visitors to the Gallier House with an uncommon look into the past.


PROGRAMMING AND TOURS:

For admission prices, group tour appointments and to purchase tickets in advance, visit hgghh.org.