Victorian Mourning Customs

On Thursday, October 23rd, at 7 pm, historian and award-winning costumer Jess Bolduc will lead a lecture on the customs and traditions of Victorian mourning at the Wilton Historical Society.

In the nineteenth century, grief was expressed through carefully observed rules of dress, etiquette, and memorial practices that shaped how families navigated loss. From
mourning clothing and jewelry to expectations placed on widows and children, these customs reflected both personal sorrow and wider cultural values. Drawing on both scholarly research and hands-on experience with period attire, this lecture will provide insight into how Victorians approached death and remembrance, offering a clearer understanding of daily life, social expectations, and the ways mourning helped define an era. The lecture will include historical examples from the museum’s collection.

Admission is $10 per person for non-members, free for Wilton Historical Society members.

Registration is required. Please register online at wiltonhistorical.org or by email [email protected]

Wilton Historical Society, 224 Danbury Road, Wilton, CT 06897