Purpose Statement

To enhance an understanding about ritual practices of death, grief and mourning.

Mission Statement

The Museum of Funeral Customs collects, preserves and interprets funeral objects that exemplify the development of multicultural mourning customs and funeral practices and their effect on a global society. To accomplish its mission, the Museum presents fixed and traveling exhibitions; offers educational programming for audiences of all ages; maintains a library and archives; conducts tours; facilitates research; publishes related materials; and maintains a website.

Vision Statement

It is the vision of the Museum of Funeral Customs to become the national center for resources that will enable people to connect the universal human experience of death with the traditions, customs and rituals that celebrate the significance and value of life.

Preserving Customs and Traditions

Death is a subject that touches the lives of all living beings, but only humans grieve a loss and ritualize death. The way in which we deal with this sensitive subject varies across time, social class, race, and ethnicity; however, none are immune from exposure to the rituals of death and grief. Death touches the high born and the common man alike. While the manner in which the living deal with the loss may vary, family, friends, and strangers, alike, share the loss. Over four hundred years ago, the English poet John Donne (1572-1631) penned these words: "...any mans (sic) death diminishes me, because I am involved in Mankinde (sic); And therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee..." Donne's words reflect that expressions of grief and loss are shared across humankind since the dawn of time. We do not live in isolation but instead, death around us causes one to reflect upon one's own mortality. Without exception, all must pass from life.