Metropolitan Funeral Home In Portsmouth Virginia

So, there I was, strolling down High Street in Portsmouth, Virginia, on a sunny afternoon, when I stumbled upon this grand old building that seemed to be straight out of a Victorian novel. It was the Metropolitan Funeral Home, and it got me thinking, what's the story behind this place?

You might be wondering, why on earth would anyone want to write about a funeral home? Well, let me tell you, this isn't your average funeral home. It's a piece of Portsmouth history, and it's got a story that's as fascinating as it is sobering.

Back in the Day

Let's rewind to the late 1800s. Portsmouth was a bustling port town, and the Metropolitan Funeral Home was at the heart of it. Back then, it was known as the Metropolitan Hotel, a fancy schmancy place where the who's who of Portsmouth would stay. Can you imagine, sipping on a mint julep in the very same spot where caskets are now displayed?

But times change, and so did the building's purpose. In 1929, it was transformed into the Metropolitan Funeral Home. And boy, did it get a makeover! The grand hotel was given a funeral home facelift, complete with a beautiful chapel and a stunning Art Deco interior.

Art Deco Glamour

Now, I don't know about you, but I've never been to a funeral home that makes me think, "Wow, this place is gorgeous!" But the Metropolitan Funeral Home is exactly that. The Art Deco details are everywhere - from the intricate geometric patterns on the walls to the stunning chandeliers that hang from the ceiling.

And get this, the chapel even has a pipe organ that's been played by the likes of Duke Ellington and Count Basie. I mean, can you imagine a more glamorous way to say your goodbyes?

More Than Just a Funeral Home

The Metropolitan Funeral Home isn't just a place where lives end; it's a place where history lives on. It's a testament to the changing face of Portsmouth, from a bustling port town to the city it is today. It's a place where the past and the present collide, and it's a place that deserves to be appreciated, even if it's not the most cheerful of topics.

So, the next time you're in Portsmouth, take a moment to appreciate the Metropolitan Funeral Home. It's a unique piece of history that's worth a visit, even if it's just to marvel at the Art Deco interior. And who knows, maybe you'll find a bit of history that you never knew you were interested in.