Victorian House in Mourning

Step back in time to the somber elegance of a Victorian house in mourning. This immersive experience transports you to the heart of 19th-century funeral customs, where the veil of death cast a somber, yet captivating shadow over daily life. Throughout October, the Whaley Historic House Museum will be shrouded in the black crepe of mourning. Discover the rituals, superstitions, and other macabre customs that the Victorians underwent following the death of a loved one. From the covered mirrors to the black plumed feathers gracing the grand staircase, our tours will transport you to a bygone era when a Victorian home transformed into a sacred space for grieving and remembrance.

This one-of-a-kind tour offers a poignant glimpse into how Victorians grappled with loss, mortality, and the sacredness of the home. Delve into this haunting chapter of history and gain a deeper appreciation for the emotional weight that permeated every corner of the Victorian household. These tours offer the right ambiance for your “spooky season” memories. Tours are held daily Tuesday through Friday, with evening tours available by request. Open tours are held on the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of October from 5 pm to 8 pm.