This fall, Clarksville Parks and Recreation invites the community to step back in time and explore the fascinating and somber traditions of the 19th century with two special events at the historic Smith-Trahern Mansion and Riverview Cemetery.

VICTORIAN MOURNING CUSTOMS

A “Day of Mourning” at Smith-Trahern Mansion

On September 21, join County Historian Carolyn Ferrell at the Smith-Trahern Mansion for a unique program that delves into the mourning customs of the 19th century.

Influenced heavily by Queen Victoria, these customs dictated how families expressed their grief, from the clothing they wore to the jewelry they made from the hair of their deceased loved ones. This immersive experience will transport visitors to a time when mourning was not just an emotion, but a way of life.

“Victorian mourning customs were a unique set of rules that allowed families to show grief in different ways, from their clothing to the jewelry they wore. With the increasing number of dead brought about by the Civil War, funerals became more frequent. Grief and mourning turned into a common practice, and for many, their new way of life,” said Roxanne Jenkins, Associate Historical Interpreter.

“We’ve never done anything like this before. Visitors will get to see the mansion set for a Victorian funeral and experience what it would have been like during the war for families that lost loved ones—many of whom are buried next door at Riverview Cemetery.”

This program is sponsored by McReynolds, Nave & Larson and is recommended for ages 10 and up. Special items will be on display during the event. Two time slots are available: 10-11:30 a.m. and 5:30-7 p.m. Registration is required.

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A DAY WITH THE DEAD CEMETERY TOUR

On October 5, step into history with the Day with the Dead Cemetery Tour at Riverview Cemetery.

This guided tour will take participants through the historic cemetery, where actors in period clothing will portray past Montgomery County residents. The Riverview Cemetery, established with the first burial dating back to 1800, is the final resting place of many of Clarksville’s most intriguing characters.

As you walk the trails, you’ll hear the life stories of those who lay in rest, bringing the past to life in a truly memorable way.

“Our Day with the Dead cemetery tour allows visitors to stroll the historic cemetery with our guides as they ‘meet’ past Clarksvillians buried there, listening to stories about their lives,” added Jenkins.

Tours begin at 3 p.m., with a new tour starting every 30 minutes through 7 p.m. Each tour lasts approximately an hour-and-a-half.

  • Adult tickets (13 and up): $15
  • Youth tickets (8-12): $10

This program is not recommended for children under 8 years of age. Strollers and pets are not permitted.

Don’t miss these unique opportunities to explore Clarksville’s rich history and the customs that shaped our past.

For more information, please contact Clarksville Parks and Recreation at 931-645-7476 or parksrec@cityofclarksville.com.