Creole Mourning Practices

It’s been said before (because it’s true): death is a big part of life. How we process the death of loved ones, how we mourn them, and how we remember them are all distinct parts of human culture. The Creoles of South Louisiana were, and are, no exception; and their distinctive mourning rituals can be experienced on a special tour offered at St. Joseph Plantation now through November 2. While there have been rumors of ghost sightings at St. Joseph, this is not a  haunted house tour. Instead, the tour offers a chance to learn more about how people handled death and to understand the origins of some of the area’s contemporary mourning practices.

This annual event sees the property decorated as it would have been when the household was in deep mourning, with black fabric hung over the doors, musical instruments closed or stored, and mirrors covered. Examples of the formal mourning dress members of the household would have worn after a death are on display; and, as was the custom, a black-draped coffin is present in the main hall, where it would have traditionally been placed for easy viewing by visitors who came to pay their respects. Aspects of mourning and funeral customs are incorporated into the regular house tour, giving guests a glimpse into this fascinating slice of Creole culture and history.

For more information or to set up a tour, visit stjosephplantation.com or call (225) 265-4078.