The National Museum of Funeral History https://nmfh.org Any day above ground is a good one.® Thu, 02 May 2024 16:02:46 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://nmfh.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/cropped-Icon-32x32.png The National Museum of Funeral History https://nmfh.org 32 32 Buried Alive https://nmfh.org/buried-alive-boetticher/ Wed, 09 Mar 2022 12:29:32 +0000 https://nmfh.org/?p=5524

The fear of being buried alive is not an everyday topic of discussion. I have not really thought about it much, and being a funeral director for over 56 years, I cannot remember one instance of where a family voiced a concern to me about this. To my amazement, I discovered there is a medical term for this phobia or fear called “taphophobia” defined as “the abnormal fear of being buried alive because of incorrectly being pronounced dead.” I bet if you asked one of your friends what it means, they would have no idea.

Hollywood has successfully seized on this plot twisting 19th-century topic using one of humanity’s biggest fears of going to the grave while still breathing. There have been over 27 macabre movie thrillers, including 1962’s “The Premature Burial,” starring Ray Milland, the 1972 made-for-television horror thriller “The Screaming Woman,” starring Olivia de Havilland, and the 2007 film “Buried Alive,” starring Terence Jay. Bestselling authors have also used this subject and terrified us, including Stephen King in his 1993 buried-alive short story thriller “Dolan’s Cadillac” and author Peter James with his 1991 suspense novel “Twilight.”

I fondly remember as a kid in the 1950s going to the Aero Theater in Santa Monica, California, and I would cringe in my seat sitting next to my brother, Bill, our hands clutching a bag of popcorn – and my favorite box of candy corns in my shirt pocket.

Our eyes glued to the large screen watching the Saturday matinee horror film, gasping on every word the actors spoke along with the terrifying visual effects. We forgot at the moment, until our mother came to pick us up afterward, it was only Hollywood entertainment. However, turning the clock back to the 18th and early 19th century, it was not make-believe entertainment but actual everyday fears, experienced by societies around the world, of being buried alive.

Burial Casket – Patent No. 329,495, dated Nov. 3, 1885. Applied for by Charles Sieler and Frederick Borntraeger, Waterloo, Iowa.

This fear of premature burial arose during the first half of the 19th century with hundreds of reports of medical personnel, with lack of training, pronouncing people dead when they were comatose or unconscious. The chances of this happening would be very slim. The world then was experiencing pandemics such as the Third Plague Pandemic in 1855, one of the deadliest in history; the Bubonic plague in 1899 that originated in Honolulu; and multiple cholera epidemics.

There were many literary works dealing with the fear of being buried alive, including three by Edgar Allan Poe: “The Fall of the House of Usher” (1839), “Premature Burial” (1844) and “The Cask of Amontillado” (1846). Poe capitalized on the public’s fascination of this fear and was known for his tales of mysteries with macabre twists. To this day, his great works terrify millions.

Early newspaper publications reported cases of exhumed corpses that appear to have been accidentally buried alive. On Feb. 21, 1885, the New York Times gave a disturbing account of such a case. The victim was a man from Buncombe County, North Carolina, whose name was given as “Jenkins.” His body was found turned over onto its front inside the coffin, with much of his hair pulled out. Scratch marks were also visible on all sides of the coffin’s interior.

Another related story was reported in the Times Jan. 18, 1886, the victim of this case being described simply as a “girl named Collins” from Woodstock, Ontario. Her body lying in a coffin was described as being found with her knees tucked up under the body, and her burial shroud “torn into shreds.”

Improved Burial Case – Patent No. 81,437, dated Aug. 8, 1868. Applied for by Franz Vester, Newark, New Jersey.

George Washington, our first president, had this same fear of being buried alive. On his deathbed Dec. 14, 1799, trying to speak, he gave instructions not to place his body in a vault, but wait for three days after his death. This was his last known request.

In London in the early 1800s, bodies were taken to mortuaries and held there for days waiting for signs of putrefaction that were visible to be sure the person was dead. Hospitals, on the other hand, stored the dead in their wards and nurses watched over the bodies looking for putrefaction. To mask the smell in the hospital of rotting human flesh, flower arrangements were placed beside each bed.

With the growing fears of possibly being buried alive, a number of inventors, in order to alleviate the public concerns and trying to make some money along the way, used their imaginations and developed patented safety coffins for the unfortunate souls trapped alive. Their intent was noble and the end result was to have the person be able to communicate with the people aboveground by the use of wires, bells, flags, tubes and air tubes. They utilized in their designs spring load coffin lids and aboveground cemetery holding vault doors that can easily be activated to open by the slightest movement of the body.

The first safety coffin reportedly was constructed in 1792 for Duke Ferdinand of Brunswick before his death. He had a window installed to allow light in, an air tube to provide a supply of fresh air, and instead of having the lid nailed down, he had a lock fitted. In a special pocket of his shroud, he had two keys, one for the coffin lid and a second for the tomb door.

A German pastor in 1798 sug-gested that coffins should have a small trumpet-like tube attached. Each day the local priest could check the state of putrefaction of the corpse by sniffing the odors emanating from the tube. If no odor was detected or the priest heard cries for help, the coffin could be dug up and the occupant rescued. If this was fact or fiction, we will never know.

Devise for Indicating Life in Buried Persons – Patent No. 268,693. Dated Dec. 5,1882. Applied for by John G. Krichbaum, Youngstown, Ohio.

There were over 30 safety coffin designs patented in Germany alone in the early 1800s with the com-mon theme of the dead being able to communicate with the people aboveground and possibly save their life.

Let’s review some of the bizarre U.S. patents of the 19th century and you can make your own determination if the inventor had a good idea or were they a little eccentric? Most of the patents filed were designed to operate when the coffin and body were fully interred. No doubt, some of the designs must have had design flaws, which makes one wonder if the invention would have worked properly if used.

Burial Casket – Patent No. 329,495, dated Nov. 3, 1885. Applied for by Charles Sieler and Frederick Borntraeger, Waterloo, Iowa.
According to the patent, it states that the applicants have invented a certain new and useful improve-ment in Life-Guard Signals for people buried in a trance or before death, with the combination of a coffin the person is enabled to give a signal and to put in operation a fan or air-blast mechanism to force air through a large tube into the foot end of the coffin lid.

This is accomplished by a wire passed down a large tube running from the ground to the upper portion of the coffin and attached to the thumb of the person, which is then connected to a trigger and placed beneath a lever attaching to the clock-work mechanism of the fan.

According to the patent, “When the hand is moved, the exposed part of the wire will come in contact with the body, completing the circuit between the battery powered alarm and the ground to the body in the coffin,” – causing the alarm to sound. Air would also start flowing through a large tube into the coffin.

When activated, there is also a spring-loaded rod that will raise up, carrying feathers or other signals such as a flag to people above the surface of the ground – alerting them that movement of the person has occurred. A lamp can then be lowered down tube positioned over the face of the buried body and the person looking down through the tube can see the face of the body in the coffin to confirm life.

Improved Burial Case – Patent No. 81,437, dated Aug.8, 1868. Applied for by Franz Vester, Newark, New Jersey.

The patent explains that the body in the coffin has a cord attached to the hand, the cord is drawn through the square tube and is attached to a bell above the surface of the grave and the tube is attached to the lid of the coffin. The coffin is lowered into the grave and backfilled with dirt to the air-inlets. If the person in the coffin returns to life, he can decide to ascend from the coffin to the surface by a ladder; but, if too weak to ascend by ladder, he can pull the cord attached to his hand and ring the bell, giving the alarm for help, and thus saving himself. There is also a glass door on the coffin top, which may be easily raised or seen through for inspection of the person laying in the coffin. Should life be extinct, the square tube is removed and the sliding door is closed.

Devise for Indicating Life in Buried Persons – Patent No. 268,693, dated Dec. 5,1882. Applied for by John G. Krichbaum, Youngstown, Ohio.
If the person buried should come to life according to the patent, a T-shaped pipe passed into the coffin can be turned by the person using both hands – and an indicator above ground will show it’s been turned. The person can also push the pipe upward and push the glass cover off of the top of the grave and a supply of sufficient air will flow, allowing the person in the coffin to breathe freely until help arrives.

Apparatus and Method for Generating Post-Burial Audio Communication in a Burial Casket – Patent No. 7,765,656. Dated Aug. 3, 2010. Applied for by Jeff Dannenberg, Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

To keep rain or other water from entering through the pipe, the box above the grave may be covered by a glass casing, so that the index indicator will still remain in full view of persons passing by. When the person has been buried a sufficiently long time to ensure the certainty of death, the aboveground apparatus may be removed by lifting the box and tube out of the grave, leaving the T-shaped handle in the coffin.

Today, inventors are taking a different twist on death – not focusing on being buried alive but on how the dead can communicate with the living using modern technology. For instance, there is a patent applied for by Jeff Dannenberg in 2010.

The description of the patent states the casket has an audio message system (20) containing audio and music files that are automatically played in accordance with a programmed schedule, thereby allowing the dead to communicate with the living. The system also allows for wireless updating of the recorded files, giving “surviving family members the ability to update, revise and edit stored audio files and pro-gramming after burial.”
Many Life Signs and Safety Coffin patents were filed over 150 years ago with the U.S. Patent Office, and we will never know the state of mind of the inventors or who they were. None of the patent designs filed sparked much interest with the public or even the funeral industry and there is no proof that any of the designs ever came to market or evidence that anyone was ever buried in a safety coffin, thus saving their life from pre-mature burial.

The story continues next month in American Funeral Director with unique funeral merchandise patents filed in the 1860s. These revolutionary coffin designs were apparently only a dream to the inventors as none ever came to market. From the collection of the National Museum of Funeral History will be photos of each of these intricate handcrafted patent models, which were required at the time of filing for a patent. •

]]> WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN LAST WILL AND LIVING WILL? https://nmfh.org/whats-the-difference-between-last-will-and-living-will/ Sun, 20 Feb 2022 20:08:16 +0000 https://nmfh.org/?p=4357

A Last Will & Testament is a written statement that explains how you want your belongings to be distributed to loved ones or charitable organizations after your death. A last will must be written with a sound mind, and is considered invalid if that is not the case, and in most states, you must be 18 years of age or older for the document to be considered legal. If you don’t have a will when you die, then your property will be handled by a probate court, and may be distributed differently than you would prefer.

A Living Will is an outline of important health care decisions, such as organ donation and whether or not to remain on artificial life support. A living will is drawn up in advance of facing such decisions. Living wills and advance directives describe your preferences for end-of-life care. These documents speak for you when you’re not able to speak for yourself.

By planning ahead, you can get the medical care you want, avoid unnecessary suffering and relieve caregivers of decision-making burdens during moments of crisis or grief. You also help reduce confusion or disagreement about the choices you would want people to make on your behalf.

See also: How do I write a Last Will & Testament?

You can download state-specific forms for advance directives via the National Hospice and Palliative Care Association’s Caring Pages.

 

Note: This page is for general information purposes. We recommend you seek the advice of an attorney for legal matters.

]]> HOW DO I WRITE AN EPITAPH? https://nmfh.org/how-do-i-write-an-epitaph/ Sun, 20 Feb 2022 19:58:40 +0000 https://nmfh.org/?p=4344

An epitaph is the wording placed on a headstone to describe the person buried there. In addition to the name, dates of birth and death, and family relationships, epitaphs often feature a quote or statement commemorating the person’s life. Many of these quotes and statements are reverent or religious, while others are humorous or philosophical. They can also be as simple as “R.I.P.” for “Rest in Peace.”

The Museum’s tagline is an epitaph: “Any day above ground is a good one.” Here are some other examples to get you started in drafting one for yourself or a loved one.

REVERENT & RELIGIOUS

Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil. –  23rd Psalm

Whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have eternal life. –  John 3:15

Earth has no sorrow that heaven cannot heal

PHILOSOPHICAL

Your presence is a gift to the world, you’re unique and one of a kind. Your life can be what you want it to be. Take it one day at a time.

Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.

HUMOROUS

Rest in Peace Nathaniel Ward
His Chevy Nova hit a Ford

He was a simple man who died of complications

Owen Moore has passed away
Owin’ more than he could pay

SIMPLY STATED / WORDS OF COMFORT

Rest in Peace

Forever in our hearts

Gone, but not forgotten

In Loving Memory of

To live in the hearts of those we love is never to die

For additional examples see British memorial company Set in Stone’s  list of epitaphs.

]]> NEWS COVERAGE – NATIONAL MUSEUM FUNERAL HISTORY https://nmfh.org/news-coverage-national-museum-funeral-history/ Sun, 20 Feb 2022 19:46:33 +0000 https://nmfh.org/?p=4335
  • 2023

Best Experiences National Museums of Funeral History

  • 2021

Grunge – March 13, 2021

National Museum of Funeral History (Houston) – All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go December, 2021

National Museum of Funeral History – Bing video May, 2021

National Museum of Funeral History celebrates life after death – Bing video October, 2021

National Museum of Funeral History – Bing video August, 2021

The National Museum of Funeral History in Houston, Texas – Bing video November, 2021

 

  • 2020

Funeral Industry News – December 29, 2020

Houstonia Magazine – December 2, 2020

Rae and Dad – November 18, 2020

365Houston – November 9, 2020

The Hannah & Fred Show – October 26, 2020

HCCTV Up to the Minute – August 6, 2020

Daytripper on PBS KUHT-TV Channel 8 – May 9, 2020

Houston Chronicle – April 26, 2020

Houston P.A. iHeart Radio – February 7, 2020

12 Top-Rated Museums in Houston | PlanetWare June 8, 2020

A Funeral Museum! (Strangest Museum in Texas!) – Bing video September, 2020

 

  • 2019

VacationIdea – September 2019

Houston Chronicle reporter Jef Rouner’s story Icons In Ash exhibit – August 7, 2019

365 Things to do in Houston, Icons In Ash exhibit – August 6, 2019

KTRH features the Museum in “Putting the ‘fun’ in funerals” – April 18, 2019

The Museum featured in The Director – April 2019

Houstonia Magazine features NMFH President Genevieve Keeney – February 2019

 

  • 2018

Houston Chronicle – September 7, 2018

Connecting Directors, The History of Cremation – September 6, 2018

Atlas Obscura, The Curious Afterlives of Hearses – April 5, 2018

How presidential funeral traditions began – Bing video December, 2018

 

  • 2017

The Spookiest Museum in Texas Promises a Horrifying Time for the Whole Family This Halloween, OnlyInYourState.com – October 27, 2017

Family fun: Tricks and treats, haunted houses and festivals, Houston Chronicle – October 25, 2017

25 Years of Houston’s National Museum of Funeral History’s Bizarrely Fascinating Exhibits, Houston Press – July 5, 2017

Batmobile displayed at funeral museum in tribute to car’s creator, Fort Bend Star – March 14, 2017

11 Quirky Texas Destinations for Curious Travelers, Culturetrip.com – March 6, 2017

Holy toledo, Batman! Funeral Museum adds whimsy to deathly subject, Houston Chronicle – February 17, 2017

“21 Best Things to do in Houston This Week” includes A Tribute to George Barris exhibit and a replica of the 1966 Batmobile on display, Houston Press – January 31, 2017

Must-See Museums you’ve (Probably) Never Heard of, MommyPoppins.com – January 12, 2017

Robert Rose, host of Raw Travel, the #1 rated travel show on TV seen in over 150 U.S. cities and several countries around the world, was recently in Houston to interview President of the National Museum of Funeral History, Genevieve Keeney, and film at the museum. We will keep you posted when the segment will air. Stay tuned! – January 12, 2017

Satisfy your curiosity at The National Museum of Funeral History – Bing video November, 2017

 

  • 2016

The Museum featured in TripAdvisor’s HolidayLettings blog “12 One-of-a-kind US Attractions You Can’t Miss” – June 29, 2016

CBS 11 KHOU-TV “Great Day Houston” featuring Kasey French, Honoring Olivewood photographer, and Descendants of Olivewood Co-President Margott Williams – February 16, 2016

Honoring Olivewood Exhibit featured – Houston Public Media KUHF, Houston Matters – February 2016

“Things to do in Houston” lists Honoring Olivewood exhibit at NMFH – Houston Press – February 2016

Honoring Olivewood Exhibit featured – Houston Public Media KUHF, Arts and Culture news – February 2016 

 

  • 2015

The Museum featured as “An Educational Experience Like No Other” – Texas Homes for Sale – December 2015

President of the Museum featured in “Dark Sun Rising” – Para-X Radio Network – October 12, 2015

Robin Williams Tribute at the Museum of Funeral History – CW39 News Fix – August 8, 2015

Till Death Do Us Part – Spring 2015

Birthday bash for Abe Lincoln celebrates Presidents’ Day at NMFH – CW39 News Fix – February 16, 2015

The Texas Bucket List – The National Museum of Funeral History – Bing video May, 2015

JB’s Journal – National Museum of Funeral History – Bing video November, 2015

 

  • 2014

Talking about life and death with the President of the National Museum of Funeral History – December 9, 2014

De todas las épocas y de todo el mundo – Semana News – November 2, 2014

Funeral museum scares up some Halloween fun – Houston Chronicle – October 28, 2014 

Funeral museum showcases the importance of what we do – October 2014

National Museum of Funeral History – Bing video April, 2014

 

  • 2013

National Museum of Funeral History – Bing video October, 2013

 

  • 2008

The Funeral Museum (Texas Country Reporter) – Bing video August, 2008

 

National Museum of Funeral History | , USA | Sights – Lonely 

Houston’s weirdest museum houses Abraham Lincoln’s hair and ‘fantasy coffins’

National Museum of Funeral History | , USA | Sights – Lonely Planet

Visit National Museum of Funeral History on your trip to Houston

Museum Of Funeral History, Houston | Ticket Price | Timings | Address: TripHobo

Roadtrippers Magazine

National Museum of Funeral History | Things To Do in Houston, TX

The Museum featured on Telemundo 39, reported by Enrique Teutelo Garcia

Freddy Cruz from 104.1 KRBE-FM interviews Museum President Genevieve Keeney

The Museum featured in RoadsideAmerica.com

The Texas Bucket List – May 11, 2014

The National Museum of Funeral History Featured on The Texas Bucket List – May 11, 2014

The Texas Bucket List – May 11, 2014

The National Museum of Funeral History Featured on The Texas Bucket List – May 11, 2014

Houston museum houses largest permanent exhibit to the popes – April 22, 2014

Redinger Funeral Home donates memorabilia to the National Museum of Funeral History – April 17, 2014

Get in the Halloween spirit at the National Museum of Funeral History  – Click 2 Houston – October 23, 2013

Spring funeral museum gets in the spirit of Halloween – Houston Chronicle – October 22, 2013

Unique Funeral Museum in Spring an education on one of man’s oldest customs – Your Houston News – October 16, 2013

Funeral useum gets into the spirit of Halloween – Houston Chronicle – October 2, 2013

Museum Recommended by Houston Chronicle – July 30, 2013

Travel Channel Starts at Museum to Explore Untimely Death of Grace Kelly – June 17, 2013

Museum Named Sight of the Week by RoadsideAmerica.com – March 3, 2013

The Official Best Of – May 29, 2013

The Official Best Of, a travel resource that provides TV & web viewers with the best places and attractions to visit in states across America, has named the National Museum of Funeral History the Best Specialty Museum in Texas for 2013. Watch our President, Genevieve Keeney, highlight some of the most fascinating items on display.

Protecting Priceless Papal, Presidential, Celebrity Artifacts – February 12, 2013

713 News – January 9, 2013

So what do people really think about a museum devoted to themes of death and dying? Visitors reveal how their expectations changed as soon as they stepped inside.

Memorial spaceflight exhibit featured on FOX 26 – September 17, 2012

Papal Exhibit Highlights Now on Display at the University of St. Thomas – August 29, 2012

Museum Named Houston’s Best – September 21, 2011

]]> IMAGE GALLERY https://nmfh.org/image-gallery/ Sun, 20 Feb 2022 09:47:23 +0000 https://nmfh.org/?p=4448

Click the links below to save a high resolution version of each image.

19TH CENTURY MOURNING

19th Century Mourning Hair Jewelry – High Res

19th Century Mourning Hair Jewelry – Low Res

DAY OF THE DEAD / DIA DE LOS MUERTOS

19th Century Mourning Hair Jewelry – High Res

19th Century Mourning Hair Jewelry – Low Res

HISTORY OF EMBALMING

History of Embalming Exhibit – High Res

History of Embalming Exhibit – Low Res

JAPANESE FUNERALS

Japanese Casket – High Res

Japanese Casket – Low Res

REFLECTIONS ON THE WALL

Reflections on the Wall – High Res

Reflections on the Wall – Low Res

MONEY CASKET

Money Casket – High Res

Money Casket – Low Res

Thanks For The Memories

Thanks For The Memories – High Res

Thanks For The Memories- Low Res

CELEBRATING THE LIVES AND DEATHS OF THE POPES

Celebrating the Lives and Deaths of the Popes Exhibit 1 – High Res

Celebrating the Lives and Deaths of the Popes Exhibit 1 – Low Res

Marsellus Casket Company

Marsellus Casket Company – High Res

Marsellus Casket Company – Low Res

Jazz Funerals of New Orleans

Jazz Funerals of New Orleans – High Res

Jazz Funerals of New Orleans – Low Res

Presidential Funerals

Presidential Funerals – High Res

Presidential Funerals – Low Res

]]> FOR ADULTS https://nmfh.org/for-adults/ Sat, 19 Feb 2022 21:09:14 +0000 https://nmfh.org/?p=4383

Share your National Museum of Funeral History experience with peers and reflect on the ways that we honor the lives of others when we say goodbye. Discover moments in history, ancient and international cultures, and ponder important topics with a group of friends or members of your organization/club. The Museum’s 17 extensive exhibits feature topics that appeal to a wide variety of interests and age ranges. Click here to see a map of the museum layout.

FOR HISTORY BUFFS

  • Presidential History: The Presidential Funerals exhibit covers all presidents from George Washington through Gerald R. Ford. A 30-45-minute presentation that provides a behind the scenes look into the planning of Presidential state funerals is available to groups, with at least four weeks advanced notice, based on availability of the presenters. The Abraham Lincoln displays within the exhibit, including a full scale recreation of President Lincoln lying in repose, an authentic mourning badge worn by a guest at his funeral in 1865, an exact replica of the Derringer pistol used by John Wilkes Booth in the president’s assassination and more, are of particular note, as 2015 marks the 150th Anniversary of Lincoln’s death.
  • Military History: The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier exhibit and the Reflections on the Wall exhibit, which features the dedication of the Vietnam War Memorial in Washington, D.C., offer opportunities to connect with important eras in our nation’s history and remember our fallen heroes. Did you know there will never be another soldier buried in the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier? Come to the Museum to learn why.
  • History of Embalming: Explore the Ancient Egyptians’ early methods of preparing the dead for the afterlife and learn the origins of modern embalming as developed on the battlefields of the Civil War by Dr. Thomas Holmes, the “father of American Embalming,” within the History of Embalming exhibit.

FOR THE ONES WHO ARE ALWAYS IN THE GARAGE

  • Evolution of the Vehicle: The Historical Hearses exhibit spans from horse-drawn carriages to hand-cranked models to gleaming vintage models from the heyday of motorized vehicles. Visitors will marvel the funeral cars manufactured by Cadillac, S&S Scoville, Ford, Mercedes, Rolls Royce, Henney and more, as well as the unique funeral bus designed for streets of San Francisco, the hearse used in Princess Grace of Monaco’s funeral, a flower car like the one used in the “Godfather” movies and more.
  • Craftsmanship: The Coffins and Caskets of the Past exhibit features historic methods of working with wood and metals, including a recreation of a casket-building shop and a casket for three. Visitors can marvel the artistry of the Fantasy Coffins from Ghana exhibit, which features coffins from Ghana, West Africa, handcrafted into elaborate shapes and figures, as well as admire the delicate details of the hand carved wooden panels of several historic hearses throughout the Museum.

FOR SCIENCE LOVERS

  • Chemistry/Biology/Anatomy: History of Embalming exhibit explains early embalming techniques as well as modern methods and introduces visitors to Dr. Thomas Holmes, the “father of American embalming,” and how he introduced embalming to our culture. The exhibit also covers Egyptian customs and the biological and chemical processes the body goes through immediately following the cessation of life.

FOR POP CULTURE AFICIONADOS, SOCIAL BUTTERFLIES, TRAVEL BUGS & WORDSMITHS

  • Memorabilia from Past Leaders, Heroes and Celebrities: The Thanks for the Memories exhibit features iconic personalities and figures, highlighting the unifying bonds of popular culture. Visitors can take in tributes to celebrities, sports figures, world leaders, astronauts and historical events that still impact our lives today such as the Space Shuttle Challenger, Marilyn Monroe, Michael Jackson, Steve Jobs and many more.
  • Customs and Traditions from Around the World: Throughout the Museum, a variety of world cultures are highlighted, including the role of Rome and The Vatican throughout history within the extensive Celebrating the Lives & Deaths of the Popes exhibit, the meaning behind Dia de los Muertos traditions from Latin America, a rare horse-drawn carriage hearse from Germany, the spiritual beliefs of West Africa through the Fantasy Coffins from Ghana exhibit, embalming practices of Ancient Egypt in the History of Embalming exhibit, an elaborate funeral car from Japan and more.
  • Social Customs: Visitors can discover the extensive rules of mourning etiquette practiced during the 1800s in the 19th Century Mourning exhibit, as well as why this is known as the Victorian age, even in American history. A Downton Abby fan’s delight!
  • Vocabulary Enrichment: Boost your trivia knowledge! The Museum experience offers impactful comprehension of countless vocabulary words. Many exhibits offer insight into the origin of common phrases and how various objects got their names.
  • Catholic Traditions and History: In the Celebrating the Lives & Deaths of the Popes exhibit, visitors can gain perspective on Catholic traditions through the centuries and get a pictorial and three-dimensional view of the customs and rituals of burying a pope, as well as details on Vatican City, the sovereign city-state within the Italian city of Rome. Currently, the Museum is working on an expansion of the papal exhibit, in collaboration with the Vatican, to feature the “Making of a Saint,” which follows the beatification and canonization of John Paul II and Paul XXIII and includes new artifacts from the April 2014 canonization ceremony in Rome. Stay tuned for information on the grand opening of this new section of the papal exhibit. Text within the exhibit appears in both English and Spanish. You may feel like you’ve traveled to Italy – no passport required!

Explore our Exhibits page and our Image Gallery for more insights and ideas.

]]> FOR FAMILIES https://nmfh.org/for-families/ Sat, 19 Feb 2022 21:02:35 +0000 https://nmfh.org/?p=4384

At the Museum, families can share in the discovery of historical topics, ancient and international cultures, as well as ponder important topics as a family. Visiting the Museum as a family can be a life-enhancing experience for all generations offering many lasting life lessons. Families can journey through human history, science and culture by exploring the 17 extensive exhibits at the National Museum of Funeral History in Houston. The Museum’s exhibits are appropriate for ages 7 and older, feature topics that appeal to a wide variety of interests and age ranges, and are wheelchair and stroller accessible/friendly. Click here to see a map of the museum layout.

To add some fun to your experience, the Museum features two different scavenger hunt activities. One scavenger hunt encourages families to discover interesting facts from the history of the funeral industry, while a second helps families learn and brush up on the traditions of the Popes. Museum visitors who submit their completed (and correct!) scavenger hunt forms earn a one-time 10% discount on gift shop purchases.

FOR HISTORY BUFFS

  • Presidential History: The Presidential Funerals exhibit covers all presidents from George Washington through Gerald R. Ford. A 30-45-minute presentation that provides a behind the scenes look into the planning of Presidential state funerals is available to groups, with at least four weeks advanced notice, based on availability of the presenters. The Abraham Lincoln displays within the exhibit, including a full scale recreation of President Lincoln lying in repose, an authentic mourning badge worn by a guest at his funeral in 1865, an exact replica of the Derringer pistol used by John Wilkes Booth in the president’s assassination and more, are of particular note, as 2015 marks the 150th Anniversary of Lincoln’s death.
  • Military History: The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier exhibit and the Reflections on the Wall exhibit offer opportunities for older generations to teach younger generations about important eras in our nation’s history, and instill respect for our fallen heroes. Did you know there will never be another soldier buried in the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier? Come to the Museum to learn why.
  • History of Embalming: Families can explore the Ancient Egyptians’ early methods of preparing the dead for the afterlife and learn the origins of modern embalming as developed on the battlefields of the Civil War within the History of Embalming exhibit.

FOR THE ONES WHO ARE ALWAYS IN THE GARAGE

  • Evolution of the Vehicle: The Historical Hearses exhibit spans from horse-drawn carriages to hand-cranked models to gleaming vintage models from the heyday of motorized vehicles. Visitors will marvel the funeral cars manufactured by Cadillac, S&S Scoville, Ford, Mercedes, Rolls Royce, Henney and more, as well as the unique funeral bus designed for streets of San Francisco, the hearse used in Princess Grace of Monaco’s funeral and more.
  • Craftsmanship: The Coffins and Caskets of the Past exhibit features historic methods of working with wood and metals, including a recreation of a casket-building shop. Visitors can marvel the artistry of the Fantasy Coffins from Ghana exhibit, which features coffins crafted into elaborate shapes and figures, as well as admire the delicate details of the hand carved wooden panels of several historic hearses throughout the Museum.

FOR SCIENCE LOVERS

  • Chemistry/Biology/Anatomy: The History of Embalming exhibit explains early embalming techniques as well as modern methods and introduces visitors to Dr. Thomas Holmes, the “father of American embalming,” and how he introduced embalming to our culture. The exhibit also covers Egyptian customs, as well as the biological and chemical processes the body goes through immediately following the cessation of life.

FOR SOCIAL BUTTERFLIES, TRAVEL BUGS & WORDSMITHS

  • Memorabilia from Past Leaders, Heroes and Celebrities: The Thanks for the Memories exhibit features iconic personalities and figures, highlighting the unifying bonds of popular culture. Visitors can take in tributes to celebrities, sports figures, world leaders, astronauts and historical events that still impact our lives today such as the Space Shuttle Challenger, Marilyn Monroe, Michael Jackson, Steve Jobs and many more.
  • Customs and Traditions from Around the World: Throughout the Museum, a variety of cultures of the world are highlighted, including the role of Rome and The Vatican throughout history within the extensive Celebrating the Lives and Deaths of the Popes exhibit, the meaning behind Dia de los Muertos traditions from Latin America, a rare horse-drawn carriage hearse from Germany, the spiritual beliefs of West Africa through the Fantasy Coffins of Ghana exhibit, embalming practices of Ancient Egypt in the History of Embalming exhibit, an elaborate funeral car from Japan and more.
  • Social Customs: Visitors can discover the extensive rules of mourning etiquette practiced during the 1800s in the 19th Century Mourning exhibit, as well as why this is known as the Victorian age, even in American history.
  • Vocabulary Enrichment: The Museum experience offers impactful comprehension of countless vocabulary words. Many exhibits offer insight into the origin of common phrases and how various objects got their names.
  • Catholic Traditions and History: In the Celebrating the Lives and Deaths of the Popes exhibit, family members can gain perspective on Catholic traditions through the centuries and learn about the process of canonization (becoming a saint), as well as learn about Vatican City, the sovereign city-state within the Italian city of Rome. Text within this exhibit appears in both English and Spanish.

Explore our Exhibits pages and our Image Gallery for more insights and ideas.

]]> FOR TEACHERS https://nmfh.org/for-teachers/ Sat, 19 Feb 2022 20:55:25 +0000 https://nmfh.org/?p=4378

Take your students on a journey through human history, science, and culture by exploring the 17 extensive exhibits at the National Museum of Funeral History in Houston. The Museum’s exhibits are appropriate for grade school students (ages 7 and older), middle schoolers, high school students, Catholic schools, Scared Straight programs/pre-prom/pre-homecoming programs, and trade school students (barber, cosmetology, wood working/craftsmen). The Museum also provides a powerful educational environment for college and university students, especially history, sociology, psychology and political science majors, as well as medical and nursing school students taking death and dying courses, grief counseling and other training. Click here to see a map of the museum layout.

EDUCATIONAL TOPICS WITHIN THE EXHIBITS

History/Government

  • Presidential Topics: The Presidential Funerals exhibit covers all presidents from George Washington through Gerald R. Ford. Groups can schedule a 30-45 minute lecture providing a behind-the-scenes look into the planning of a Presidential state funeral. The Abraham Lincoln displays are of particular note, as 2015 marks the 150th Anniversary of Lincoln’s death.
  • Military History: The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier exhibit and the Reflections on the Wall exhibit give students important historical perspectives and teach respect for our fallen heroes. Did you know there will never be another soldier buried in the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier? Come to the Museum to learn why.
  • History of Embalming: Students can explore the Ancient Egyptians early methods of preparing the dead for the afterlife and learn the origins of modern embalming as developed on the battlefields of the Civil War within the History of Embalming exhibit.

Industry/Craftsmanship

  • Evolution of the Vehicle: The Historical Hearses exhibit spans from horse-drawn carriages to hand-cranked models to motorized vehicles. Students will marvel the unique funeral bus designed for the streets of San Francisco, the hearse used in Princess Grace of Monaco’s funeral and more.
  • Craftsmanship: The Coffins and Caskets of the Past exhibit features historic methods of working with wood and metals, including a recreation of a casket-building shop. Students can marvel the artistry of the Fantasy Coffins from Ghana exhibit, which features coffins crafted into elaborate shapes and figures, as well as admire the delicate details of the hand carved wooden panels of several historic hearses throughout the Museum.

Science through the Centuries

  • Chemistry/Biology/Anatomy: The History of Embalming exhibit explains early embalming techniques as well as modern methods and introduces visitors to Dr. Thomas Holmes, the “father of American embalming,” and how he introduced embalming to our culture. The exhibit also covers Egyptian customs and the biological and chemical processes the body goes through immediately following the cessation of life.

Cultures, Social Customs & Language

  • Memorabilia from Past Leaders, Heroes and Celebrities: The Thanks for the Memories exhibit features iconic personalities and figures, highlighting the unifying bonds of popular culture. Students can take in tributes to celebrities, sports figures, world leaders, astronauts and historical events that still impact our lives today such as the Space Shuttle Challenger, Marilyn Monroe, Michael Jackson, Steve Jobs and many more.
  • Customs and Traditions from Around the World: Throughout the Museum, students can learn about the cultures of the world, including the importance of Rome and The Vatican throughout history within the extensive Celebrating the Lives and Deaths of the Popes exhibit, the meaning behind Dia de los Muertos traditions from Latin America, a rare horse-drawn carriage hearse from Germany, the spiritual beliefs of West Africa through the Fantasy Coffins of Ghana exhibit, embalming practices of Ancient Egypt in the History of Embalming exhibit, an elaborate funeral car from Japan and more.
  • Social Customs: Students can learn about the extensive rules of mourning etiquette practiced during the 1800s in the 19th Century Mourning exhibit, as well as why this is known as the Victorian age, even in American history.
  • Vocabulary Enrichment: The Museum experience offers impactful comprehension of countless vocabulary words. After attending a workshop at the Museum, one Aldine ISD English teacher noted: a “vast array of vocabulary words can be found throughout the Museum.”
  • Catholic Traditions and History: In the Celebrating the Lives and Deaths of the Popes exhibit, students can gain perspective on Catholic traditions through the centuries and discover the process of canonization, as well as learn about Vatican City, the sovereign city-state within the Italian city of Rome. Text within this exhibit appears in both English and Spanish.

Teachers and students have nothing to fear and everything to learn! Come see how our Museum can help enhance your curriculum. Explore our Exhibits pages and our Image Gallery for more insights and ideas.

]]> WHAT IS POWER OF ATTORNEY? https://nmfh.org/what-is-power-of-attorney/ Sat, 19 Feb 2022 20:48:44 +0000 https://nmfh.org/?p=4374

A legal document called a “power of attorney” gives an individual the legal authority to make decisions for an incapacitated person. This type of document is usually drawn up before the person is incapacitated. The laws for creating a power of attorney vary from state to state, but there are certain general guidelines to follow. A power of attorney document may be drawn up to give a trusted friend or relative the authority to deal with only one particular issue (a specific power of attorney), or to handle most of the incapacitated person’s personal and financial matters (a general power of attorney).

The individual with power of attorney may be responsible for making financial decisions, monetary gifts, heath care decisions (including the ability to consent to giving, withholding, or stopping medical treatments, services, or diagnostic procedures), and recommending a guardian for the incapacitated person.

Often times, individuals will engage the services of an attorney or lawyer to draft a Power of Attorney document.

For more information refer to Caregivers Library.

Note: This page is for general information purposes. We recommend you seek the advice of an attorney for legal matters. Additionally, before you or a loved one signs any documents, be sure to consult with an attorney concerning all applicable laws and regulations.

]]> WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN DNR AND DNI? https://nmfh.org/what-is-the-difference-between-dnr-and-dni/ Sat, 19 Feb 2022 20:45:59 +0000 https://nmfh.org/?p=4369

DNRs and DNIs are legal orders that tell a health care team what measures a patient does not want to receive in the event of a life-threatening health crisis. DNR or “Do Not Resuscitate” means that no CPR (chest compressions, cardiac drugs, or placement of a breathing tube) will be performed. A DNI or “Do Not Intubate” order means that chest compressions and cardiac drugs may be used, but no breathing tube will be placed.

It’s best to discuss DNR and DNI orders and other end-of-life care issues with the patient’s health care team before a crisis occurs. You don’t need to have a formal advance directive or living will to have DNR and DNI orders in place. You can make your preferences known to your physician, who can write the orders and put them in your medical record. If you have a living will, however, be sure to mention whether you have a DNR or DNI order on record.

For further information: see the Mayo Clinic’s page on Advanced Directives.

Note: This page is for general information purposes. We recommend you seek the advice of an attorney for legal matters.

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