In a message dated 4/6/99 3:46:30 PM, [log in to unmask] writes:

>The staff at one of our historic houses, the James Iredell House in
>Edenton, North Carolina, would like to commemorate the 200th anniversary
>of his death on October 20, 1799 (two months before George Washington's
>death).  Iredell was not only a very important figure in our state during
>the American Revolution, but he was a U. S. Supreme Court justice at the
>time of his death, so he was a nationally recognized figure.
>
>We are having trouble finding out about mourning customs during this time.
>We are still researching contemporary accounts of his death, so we know
>that he had Masonic rites at his funeral.  We would like to know how his
>house may have been "decorated", what his family and friends may have
>worn, and any other outward displays of mourning.


This year's Old Farmer's Almanac has several pages on the funerals and rites
for George Washington in various American cities in 1799. That should get you
started.

For Masonic rites, suggest you contact the Museum of Our National Heritage,
PO Box 519, 33 Marrett Street, Lexington MA 02173.

David Formanek
Cyrus E. Dallin Art Museum
Arlington MA 02476