Posted in Virginia
February 06, 2017
These Graveyard Museums In Virginia Are Not For The Faint Of Heart
As Virginians, we have the utmost respect for our history. Even so, one can’t help but admit that sometimes this history can be, well, a bit eerie. Especially when it comes to the funeral and burial history of Virginians past. While this information is certainly well-worth preserving, be forewarned that a visit to this fascinating site in Lynchburg might just give you chills. Here’s more on the Old City Cemetery and its entirely unique museums:
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The cemetery was built on land donated by the city founder, John Lynch, himself.
From 1806 - 1865, this site was the only burial ground available to African Americans in the area.
It’s here that visitors can test their comfort zones as they learn about a range of activities, from mourning etiquette to embalming techniques.
This site reveals medical techniques that were used during the nineteenth century, many of which are bone chilling. During the Civil War, the Pest House served as one of the busiest hospitals in Lynchburg.
It's not rare to see staff members dressed in proper funeral etiquette or, in the photo directly above, dressed for candlelight tours.
If you've ever been curious about what it may have been like to attend a funeral in 1899, the Cemetery Center will answer your questions.
You'll be able to purchase "Food To Die For," a tongue-in-cheek book which includes funeral food, policies, and photographs from the Old Town Cemetery.
Old Town Cemetery is located at 401 Taylor Street. Lynchburg VA 24501. For more information about this historical site and its intriguing museum collection, click here.
