There were many rituals and customs when a death occurred in the 19th century. The house had to be dressed for mourning! Mirrors were always covered in black so the spirit would not get trapped here on earth. Windows and doors were open so the soul would be able to escape. Turning down or covering family photos to prevent the dead spirit from possessing them. And the dead was always carried out of the house feet first, to prevent the spirit from looking back into the house so as not to beckon another family member with them! The final ritual of resting is the black wreath hung on the front door. Still some superstitions and traditions are hovering around today.
The Hermann-Grima House, located at 820 Saint Louis, is one of the jewels of the Vieux Carre. Catch a glimpse of this 1831 Federal Mansion, with the parlor decorated as if the house is in mourning. The tour is early October to November 2, and imagine someone going out feet first!!!
"While I thought I was learning how to live, I have been learning how to die." Leonardo Da Vinci
I finally got it to work.
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