
Our latest exhibit, titled “’Til Death Do Us Part: Victorian Mourning Customs in America,” examines traditions that are still practiced by many today. Among the featured objects is a photograph of Henry Meigs Landis in his coffin and a death mask that was created for Joseph Richard Brognard, an ancestor of Joseph Simpson, the Vineland man who invented Skee-Ball. Henry, the first-born son of Charles and Clara Meade Landis, died of cholera shortly before his first birthday. The exhibit also showcases examples of black glass jewelry, engraved name plates from local tombstones and black-trimmed invitations to funerals that were mailed to family members and friends. As you can see from the photo shown here, our "widow" is waiting to receive guests.
The Vineland Historical and Antiquarian Society is dedicated to collecting and preserving artifacts and records related to Vineland and the South Jersey region, and to sharing that material with visitors through exhibits, programs and other appropriate venues. Vineland has a rich, culturally-diverse past that is reflected through our collections. To learn more, please contact us or make an appointment to visit. Researchers are welcome but appointments are required at least ONE WEEK IN ADVANCE OF YOUR VISIT to ensure that needed resources are available. There is a $10 charge for non-members to use the research library. (Pictured at left: Vineland's first museum, c. 1890s)
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PLEASE NOTE: The Vineland Historical and Antiquarian Society is not affiliated with nor receives any ongoing financial support from any other historical organization or government agency.
Also: Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without the express and/or written permission of the Vineland Historical and Antiquarian Society is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to the Vineland Historical and Antiquarian Society with appropriate and specific directions to the original content.