Child's Coffin, 1870-1890
Add to SetSummary
By the end of the 19th century, Americans could purchase a ready-made coffin from a local storekeeper instead of having one made by a cabinetmaker. This child's coffin, found in a general store in rural Georgia, is similar to others available through late 19th-century funeral supply company catalogs. A removeable viewing lid allowed a grieving family one last look at a departed loved one.
By the end of the 19th century, Americans could purchase a ready-made coffin from a local storekeeper instead of having one made by a cabinetmaker. This child's coffin, found in a general store in rural Georgia, is similar to others available through late 19th-century funeral supply company catalogs. A removeable viewing lid allowed a grieving family one last look at a departed loved one.
Artifact
Coffin
Date Made
1870-1890
Location
Not on exhibit to the public.
Object ID
80.50.1
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford.
Material
Pine (Wood)
Paint (Coating)
Color
Cream (Color)
Tan (Color)
Dimensions
Height: 13 in
Width: 16.5 in (At widest point)
Length: 56 in
Inscriptions
written in blue on underside: [3?] - 4- 0 / LXY / 12.50"
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