Flat Rock Historical Society

For Immediate Release:
October 4, 2017
Contact: Debbie Galik (248.318.5297)
LINCOLN’S COFFIN PLAYS ROLE IN 1ST ANNUAL HISTORIC CEMETERY WALK

     Batesville Casket Company’s authentic replica of Abraham Lincoln’s coffin will be on display as part of the inaugural Historic Cemetery Walk presented by Brownstown & Flat Rock Historical Society on Friday, October 20 and Saturday, October 21, 2017.
Abraham Lincoln’s elaborate coffin was constructed of solid walnut, lined with lead and completely covered in fine, expensive black cloth. It is six feet, six inches long – probably a tight fit for the six-foot, four-inch President. The coffin was decorated with silver tacks extending the entire length of its sides. There were four handles set in silver medallions on each side of the coffin. The center of its lid showcased a shield outlined in silver tacks, with a silver plate bearing the inscription:

ABRAHAM LINCOLN
16TH PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES
BORN FEBRUARY 12, 1809
DIED APRIL 15, 1865

     The replica, one of four traveling displays in the United States, was crafted to the exact specification of the original by Batesville Casket Company of Batesville, Indiana. The only difference between the original coffin and the Batesville replica is the absence of a lead lining; omitted because of its overwhelming weight and the silver plate bearing the inscription.

“We are excited to be able to display this part of history at our 1st annual Historic Cemetery Walk and appreciate Michigan Memorial Funeral Home and Park for making this opportunity available to us,” said Patti Sherman, President of Flat Rock Historical Society.

Tours will begin at Flat Rock Historical Society where you’ll visit the “House of Mourning” see Lincoln’s coffin and familiarize yourself with customs once observed. From there you’ll take a short bus ride to a local historic cemetery. Upon your return to the historical society, you will enjoy refreshments at the historic Smith Hotel.

“This is not a scary event. It’s fun and educational. It’s an opportunity to learn about prominent residents that once lived and worked within Brownstown Township,” said Debbie Galik, President of Brownstown Historical Society.

Proceeds of the event will help preserve our local historic cemeteries. Tickets ($20) are still available for the cemetery walk and are on sale at:

Flat Rock Historical Society, 25486 Gibraltar Road (734.782.5220)

or online at https://cemeterywalk.eventbrite.com.

There are six tours available each evening. Plan on two hours to enjoy all the activities.