September 30, 2019

CONTACT: Trevor Beemon

Executive Director

tbeemon@cobblandmarks.com

678.594.4994 

19th century embalming equipment and mourning jewelry (created with human hair) will be among the curious artifacts on display during this special exhibit.   

MARIETTA - During the 1850s, Hannah and William Root shared their home with their children and extended family. Hannah Root's father, Leonard Simpson, lived with the family and died on October 11, 1856. During the month of October, visitors to the William Root House Museum will see the home decorated for Leonard Simpson's funeral. Curtains will be drawn, and rooms will be adorned with black crepe and ribbons. Visitors will be able to view 19th century embalming equipment, mourning jewelry (made from human hair), and other curious artifacts related to death and mourning in the Victorian era.  

WHAT: Death and Mourning in the 1850s

WHEN: October 2-31, 2019 

WHERE: William Root House Museum & Garden; 80 N Marietta Parkway NW, Marietta, GA 30060

TICKETS: Included in the cost of regular museum admission. The museum will also be open for night tours on Saturdays throughout October. Details: roothousemuseum.com/mourning 

ABOUT THE WILLIAM ROOT HOUSE MUSEUM & GARDEN: Owned and operated by Cobb Landmarks & Historical Society, the William Root House is one of the oldest homes in the Atlanta area. Museum visitors experience life for a middle class family living in antebellum Georgia. Home to the Root family from 1845 to 1886, the Root House is more typical of its time and place than the grand plantations and columned mansions popularized by Gone With the Wind. Meticulously restored to its c. 1850 appearance, the home and its gardens are awaiting your visit.