The Mercer County Historical Society has a unique piece in its collection—a small, white baby coffin bearing the German inscription “Ruhe in Frieden,”meaning “Rest in Peace.” But what truly sets this piece apart is the presence of a small window set into the lid.

Today, this might seem an odd detail, but in the 1800s, it served a very specific purpose.

Once, the whole in the coffin’s lid would have held a glass panel, something which allowed family members one last opportunity to see their loved one without having to open the coffin. It was a way to preserve both the body and the solemnity of the moment. This practice was especially common for infants and young children, whose deaths were heartbreakingly frequent before the advancements of modern medicine.

Beyond sentiment, there were practical reasons too. In a time before embalming was routine, the glass helped prevent disruption once a body was placed at rest. Some families even feared premature burial—leading to “safety coffins” with windows, breathing tubes, and even bells.

Though small, this baby coffin offers a powerful glimpse into the ways families once grieved, remembered, and coped with loss. It stands as a quiet reminder of how even the most personal items can shed light on the cultural practices of the past.

If you are interested in seeing this coffin, stop by the Riley House museum on a Monday or a Friday between 9 and 5. Admission is free.