Name/Title
Wicker CasketEntry/Object ID
77-822-01Description
Wicker Casket used from 1896 to 1904. From Smith's Funeral Home in Billings, MT. Still in operation today (2022).
This type of casket was used in the late 1800's and early 1900's until the advent of the modern day stretcher. Caskets like this came in various sizes from infant to adult.
Wicker Casket used in Billings, MT from 1896 to 1904. Donated by Smith's Funeral Chapels.
During the Victorian Period (1837-1901), wicker caskets were used to lay out the body of the deceased in the parlor of house. They were also used to transport bodies of those who died while away from home as the wicker caskets were lightweight and easier to carry than a wood coffins.
G. Herman Smith founded Smith Funeral Home in Billings in 1896 at the corner of First Avenue North and 27th Street. Pete Smith, Herman’s Uncle, was operating the business out of his livery stable a few years before. As Pete didn’t care for the undertaking part of the business, he encouraged Herman to take it over. In 1904, Herman moved the business again to Second Avenue North and 26th Street with his residence on the corner and the funeral home and livery stable behind. Herman died in 1946 and his son Howard continued the Smith legacy.
In 1975, the funeral home was purchased by William K. Bray, William B. Brown, and Jered H. Scherer. One year later, the three new owners formed Smith Funeral Chapels. The old Smith residence and original funeral home and livery stable were razed, making room for a parking lot. And, in 2005, Smith Funeral Chapel Downtown was moved to its current site at 925 South 27th Street. Today, all Smith Funeral Chapels are owned and operated by Jered Scherer and Ronald Stene.Acquisition
Accession
1977-0822Source or Donor
Smith Funeral ChapelAcquisition Method
Gift