As beautiful as many Victorian households were, they contained an almost untold number of dangers. From poisons in clothing and cosmetics, to the demands of Victorian fashion, to adulterated foods, and even to the new services - like electricity and plumbing - services that made these dwellings the first modern homes, Victorian were surrounded by potentially fatal conditions.
This specially ticketed, hour-long tour, guided by Hearthstone’s Executive Director George Schroeder, will take a closer look at the dangers lurking in each room of a Victorian mansion.
To set the stage properly, the tour also features Hearthstone decorated in Victorian mourning with black crepe adorning the windows, mirrors turned over, and clocks stopped. After the tour, guests will be able to view exhibits of memento mori - items Victorians crafted to help them mourn - including hair jewelry and post mortem photography. See the Events section for ticketing information.