Black crape is placed upon the door or bell knob, as an indication that the pale dread visitor has entered the home, and borne away another prize. Mirrors are draped in black cloth and the clocks had been stopped inside the home at the time of passing.
When the funeral is held at the home, the family do not view the remains after the people have begun to assemble. Just before the clergyman begins the services the mourners are seated near the casket, the nearest one at the head, and the others following in order of kinship. If it is possible, they are placed in a room adjoining, where the words of the service can be heard. They are thus spared the pain of giving way to their grief before strangers.
“FUNERAL PRIVATE” has caused many to remain away from a funeral, let they intrude. But it merely means that the interment will be private, only a few near friends accompanying the remains to the grave; but at the services all who choose to come will be welcome.
It is no longer the custom to watch the dead…an excellent omission, for many of those vigils were unseemly in their mirth. Some friend or relative sits up in order to give the dead any attention necessary. The preparation of the deceased is always attended by some kindly friends who are not members of the family, and that agonizing duty is spared the afflicted ones. It is more thoughtful for someone to volunteer to remain with the family, through the long sad night hours. It makes the grief and loneliness of the house less oppressive.
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