For Immediate Release

Contact: Kara O’Keeffe
Kara.okeeffe@wisconsinhistory.org

October 9, 2018

Discover the History of Death at Black Point Estate and Gardens

Lake Geneva, Wis. – Learn how Victorian’s embraced death as a cause for elaborate ritual during the event, “When Angels Carried Them Away: Death and Mourning in the Victorian Era” at Black Point Estate and Gardens October 12 & 13.

“In the Victorian era, death was revered as an event worthy of grandiose ritual for both the living and the deceased,” said David Desimone, site director at Black Point Estate.  “This program is perfect for those who want to learn more about these elaborate traditions.”

From 1875 to 1915, the rituals of death developed into the sophistication of the modern cemetery, mortician, and public funeral, including the tradition of gifting flower arrangements and hearse transportation for the deceased loved one.  Stephen Person will give a presentation on Victorian funeral and mourning customs, guests will also be given a first-floor house tour, and will hear about the maritime mishaps on Lake Geneva during the ride to and from the estate.

On October 12, the cruise will depart at 5:30 PM and return at 8:00 PM.  On October 12, the cruise will depart at 4:00 PM and return at 7:30 PM.  Boat rides depart from and return to Riveria Docks in downtown Lake Geneva.

Tickets to this program are $44.00 per person and can be purchased via the Lake Geneva Cruise Line. To purchase tickets, please visit the Lake Geneva Cruise Line atwww.cruiselakegeneva.com or call 262-248-6206.

About Black Point Estate & Gardens
The Black Point Estate and Gardens historic site is one of 12 Wisconsin Historical Society historic sites and museums.  Black Point Estate is located on Geneva Lake in southeastern Wisconsin. Visitors travel to the site via boat. Tickets can be booked through Lake Geneva Cruise Line, a private tour company. Call the Lake Geneva Cruise Line at 262-248-6206 for more information.  For more information please visit Black Point Estate at www.blackpointestate.org or call 262-248-1888.

About Wisconsin Historical Society
The Wisconsin Historical Society, founded in 1846, ranks as one of the largest, most active and most diversified state historical societies in the nation. As both a state agency and a private membership organization, its mission is to help people connect to the past by collecting, preserving and sharing stories. The Wisconsin Historical Society serves millions of people every year through a wide range of sites, programs and services. For more information, visitwww.wisconsinhistory.org.

###