The James T. Callow Folklore Archive

DEATH

WHEN A MOUNTAINEER DIES, HE IS DRESSED IN HIS BEST SUIT WITH THE LONG
WHITE, TIGHT-FITTING TROUSERS, THE RICHLY EMBROIDERED VEST AND COAT,
THE ROUND HAT LINED WITH SHELLS. HIS CASKET IS CARRIED ON THE
SHOULDERS OF HIS FRIENDS TO THE NEAREST CHURCH. ON THE TOP OF THE
CASKET IS LAID HIS MOUNTAIN AXE, AND THE LONG COIL OF ROPE HE HAD
WORN AT HIS BELT WHEN TRAVELING THE COUNTRY OF DANGEROUS PEAKS.

Submitter comment: THIS CUSTOM IS FOLLOWED IN POLAND.

Where learned: DETROIT

Date learned: 04-02-1979