Child-Sized Mummiform Iron Coffin, 1854-1858
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In the early- to mid-1800s, transportation improvements allowed Americans to travel great distances. It also meant that they could die far from home. Before modern embalming procedures, returning the deceased for proper internment was difficult. Airtight metal coffins preserved the body for transport, providing families an opportunity to mourn and bury their loved ones at home.
In the early- to mid-1800s, transportation improvements allowed Americans to travel great distances. It also meant that they could die far from home. Before modern embalming procedures, returning the deceased for proper internment was difficult. Airtight metal coffins preserved the body for transport, providing families an opportunity to mourn and bury their loved ones at home.
Artifact
Coffin
Date Made
1854-1858
Location
Not on exhibit to the public.
Object ID
80.128.1
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford.
Material
Cast iron
Glass (Material)
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