Description
Book SynopsisThe Life of the Afterlife in the Big Sky State is a groundbreaking history of death in Montana. It offers a unique, reflective, and sensitive perspective on the evolution of customs and burial grounds.
Trade Review"This well-researched and finely written book makes a significant contribution to the larger literature on death and burial practice in the American West."—Micah T. Chang,
South Dakota History"Baumler says she hopes to 'appeal to those who love history, and quiet places, and wandering among the dead' (p. xvii).
The Life of the Afterlife certainly does that, and much more. Its musings on life and death, forty black and white illustrations, tombstone stories, and well-researched history will be of interest to students of American culture, Montana history, grave markers, and anyone who loves a good tale."—Annette Stott,
Social History“Ellen has been called a ‘rock star of history’ in honor of her love of historical places and her long-standing commitment to telling the stories of our past in ways that make history accessible to all.”—Montana Preservation Alliance, Individual Achievement Award
“A prolific and talented writer with the rare ability to author scrupulously researched yet broadly appealing publications.”—Montana Historical Society staff tribute
“[Ellen Baumler] has made history come alive for young and old. When history calls, Ellen listens.”—Montana Governor’s Award for Excellence
Table of ContentsList of Illustrations
Preface
Acknowledgments
Chapter 1. Death and Burial among the First Montanans
Chapter 2. Mortuary Customs of the Upper Missouri Tribes
Chapter 3. Tragedy beyond Description
Chapter 4. Before There Was Billings
Chapter 5. Conflict, Misfortune, and Uneasy Transitions
Chapter 6. Death in Montana’s Early Communities
Chapter 7. Dead and Buried Twice
Chapter 8. The Evolution of Beautiful Burial Grounds
Chapter 9. Cemetery Diversity
Chapter 10. Homage to the Dead
Chapter 11. How We Miss Them
Afterword
Notes
Bibliographic Essay
Index
