The Mourning Society wouldn’t be anything if it weren’t for an amazing group of volunteers that make our events so special. We’ll be shining a spotlight on our members throughout the fall season.

Interested in becoming a member? Find out more here.

💀 How long have you been a member of the Mourning Society of St Louis and how did you get started?

I have been a member since 2014. After several years of attending the events as a guest, I was invited to bring my hearse and park curbside for an event. Not long after I arrived, one of the participants had to leave and I was asked to take her place, so I spent the rest of the day happily talking to the public about arsenic poisoning! I've been hooked ever since.

💀 What role do you play in the group?

I have filled several roles within the group. Tour guide, mourner, presenter. Aside from arsenic poisoning, event topics have included dysentery, consumption, infant mortality, and medical quackery.

💀 What is your favorite Mourning Society event?

My favorite will always be the annual Consolations of Memory. It was my first experience with the Society and I love spending the day in beautiful Bellefontaine Cemetery while wearing my Victorian-era dresses. It really feels like we've stepped through a portal to the past.

💀 What is your favorite topic?

I have enjoyed so many of our topics but my favorites are any of the mourning customs and spiritualism. The year when we had one of our suffrage events and a little girl was asking for our "autographs" as suffragists was really memorable and fun.