History Matters: Death takes a ride
The dig site where we did our archaeological investigation, just behind the Old Stone Burial Ground at the corner of Riverside and Society Roads in East Lyme. (photo courtesy of Jim Littlefield)
Published January 19. 2021 7:33AM
Jim Littlefield, Special to The Times
“Yes, our church hearse is at your disposal, my dear, but remember, you must supply your own horse!”
The historical record suggests this scene must have played out multiple times over the years. A bereaved widow is questioning her minister regarding funeral arrangements for her recently deceased husband. As a church member in good standing, she is assured the use of the church’s communally owned funeral carriage to transport him to his final place of rest. But she also needs to be reminded that the horsepower necessary to get the job done is not the church’s responsibility.