Consolations of Memory - 101026

Consolations of Memory

Presented by The Mourning Society of Saint Louis with support from Bellefontaine Cemetery & Arboretum

About the Event

Join us for Consolations of Memory, an immersive guided cemetery walk in and around historic Hotchkiss Chapel. Each year, this special event focuses on a different topic related to life, death, and mourning customs in the mid-19th century. During the tour, guests will learn about tragic historical events in St. Louis, funeral and burial practices of the era, and the meaningful ways the dead were remembered by those left behind to mourn.

• Date: Saturday, October 10, 2026
• Timeslots: 10:00 am | 12:00 pm | 2:00 pm
• Location: In and around Historic Hotchkiss Chapel
• Admission: Free (Pre-registration required)

2026 Theme: The Reinterment of Dr. Bernard Farrar

This year’s presentation focuses on the story and reinterment of Dr. Bernard Farrar, who passed away during the devastating 1849 St. Louis cholera outbreak. In 1862, Dr. Farrar was laid to rest at Bellefontaine Cemetery, where his legacy continues to be remembered today.

🚌 Arrival & Trolley Logistics

• Entrance: Attendees should arrive at the main entrance located at 4947 W. Florissant Ave. at their designated ticket time.

• Parking & Registration: Once inside the gates, follow the white signs with green lettering to Wildwood Valley for parking and check-in.

• Trolley Transport: The BCA Trolley will transport registered guests from the registration area directly to the event site at Hotchkiss Chapel and will return guests to their vehicles once the presentation is complete.

🎟️ Registration Details

• Registration is free, but space is strictly limited across three time slots.

• Each time slot runs two simultaneous tour groups capped at 32 participants each (64 total guests per time slot).

• Pre-registration is required. Please select your preferred time slot and group option at checkout.