"Churchyard Cemeteries and the Victorians – Black Feathers to Black Underwear" - Heritage Talk

As part of Heritage Open Days, join local historian Kevin Varty for a captivating and thought-provoking talk at Huntingdon Town Hall. Entitled “Churchyard Cemeteries and the Victorians: Black Feathers to Black Underwear”, this illustrated talk explores the fascinating world of Victorian funerary customs and mourning traditions.

Discover why the colour black came to dominate everything from outer garments to underclothes, and what black lace, feathers, and even jewellery symbolised during an era deeply preoccupied with death and remembrance. Learn how Queen Victoria’s prolonged mourning for Prince Albert set the tone for a national obsession with grief — influencing fashion, etiquette, and even cemetery design.

This engaging session sheds light on the rituals, symbolism, and social expectations that surrounded death in the 19th century, offering a compelling insight into a society where mourning became a way of life.

Free to attend.

Timings & Tours

Wednesday 17 September:

1900

Location & directions

Town Hall, Market Hill, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, PE29 3PJ

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking required

Booking conditions:

This is a free event, but booking is essential. To book, please email [email protected], call 01480 411883, or register below.

Booking telephone number:

+441480411883

Booking email:

[email protected]

Booking website:

https://www.huntingdontown.gov.uk/council_events/heritage-open-days-churchyard-cemeteries-and-the-victorians-black-feathers-to-black-underwear/

Booking opens:

01 Aug 2025 12:00 AM

Booking closes:

16 Sep 2025 12:00 AM

Accessibility details

The talk will be held in the Assemby Room of Huntingdon Town Hall, Market Hill, Huntingdon, PE29 3PJ.  The event is on the 2nd floor, and there is wheelchair access via a lift.

Additional information

Max no of people per tour:

50

Est. tour duration:

1 hour(s)

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