I have just learned that there is a difference between a Death Notice and an
Obituary. I have always thought they were the same thing. Obviously I was
mistaken.
As I now understand it, a Death Notice is usually a very brief notice of a
person's death, and it is usually placed in the paper by undertaker.
An Obituary, on the other hand, is usually a much more detailed announcement.
It will usually give details of the person's life, and will usually provide
information about the person's family members.
My question is this: In the late 1800s and early 1900s was it usual or
unusual for a person of modest means to have the type of obituary that is described
above?
And, if it's likely that I could find an obituary for my immigrant Irish
ancestors, where might I find these obituaries?
I am trying to learn where in Ireland my immigrant ancestors had lived before
settling in Baltimore. It's been a long search with lots of dead-ends.
Thank you for any information, comments, and/or suggestions.
Jerry Gary
Walnut Creek, CA