3/7/2010:
In its prime, the first hearse belonging to the city of Hebron was somber and stately. It was decorated with carvings and draperies and tassels, and was pulled by two black horses, covered in huge black tapestries.
For forty years, the hearse served its purpose, carrying the mortal remains of beloved family and friends to their graves. But tradition can only go so long, and the horse-drawn hearse became outdated.
On this date in 1956, Hebron sent its hearse on its last, long and lonely ride. Its final destination was a museum in Oregon, where it would be restored and displayed; and Hebron residents took solace in the fact that one day, they might once again see the carriage that carried their dead.
Dakota Datebook written by Sarah Walker
Sources:
The Hebron Herald, Wednesday, March 7, 1956