Mobile's Mardi Gras Past

Looking at some of the old artifacts from 19th century carnivals you get a sense of how this annual celebration's evolved. While there were a couple observances in the 18th century, Mobile's Mardi Gras really got its start in 1830.

“When they staged an informal parade down the streets of mobile having acquired a few bits of hardware, cowbell and rakes,” says Executive Director of the Historic Mobile Preservation Society Marylyn Culpepper. “Hence was born the Cowbell de Rakin Society.” Some of the old pieces like this incense burner were very ornate. With its goat's head and silver design many of these things have a bit of an occult feel to them.

“Because these are supposed to be mystical societies that the artist took license with the idea to make it seem other worldly,” says Culpepper. Ball and party invitations conjure up mystical images of angels and devils. Many were printed with exquisite artwork and they used to be hand delivered.

“This is my private organization and I'm extending to you a special invitation a personal invitation,” says Culpepper. To give you a idea of how things have changed, today parading societies use plastic coins, but back in the day they used to use metal coins. It is a lot like a 50 cent piece and it could certainly hurt when thrown from a float.