Mourning Cockades

Mourning traditions in Victorian times included black clothing and accessories for the family of the deceased. But for those who were friends or distant relations, often something simpler was worn. A small piece of jewelry with the fallen one's picture or lock of hair might be used as a memento. A black cockade or sleeve band were also outward marks of respect for the dead.

For instance, here is a photo of JEB Stuart wearing a black mourning band in memory of Stonewall Jackson.

 

This is a photo of US Grant wearing a black cockade armband in memory of Abraham Lincoln. 

 

This is an original mourning cockade, honoring Abraham Lincoln. 

These cockades were beautiful and moving works of art to honor the memory of a fallen loved one or respected public figure. It's a style that I would love to see brought back into our culture.