Quebec Woman Smokes in Hearse

In the annals of bizarre and daring acts of defiance, a woman from Quebec City stands out as a true trailblazer. In a time when societal norms were vastly different, she managed to capture the imagination of her peers and modern-day internet users alike. Her audacious escapade, which took place in the 19th century, involved reclining on a coffin-bed inside a hearse and casually puffing on a pipe while being driven through the streets of Quebec City.

In a newspaper article that has recently resurfaced from the archives of The Illustrated Police News, Volume 11, 1871, the writer expressed sheer astonishment at the woman’s peculiar stunt, pondering what women would do next to distinguish themselves. This act of defiance, as absurd as it may have appeared to some, was a testament to her spirit and determination.

‘A Quebec Woman Creates a Sensation, Riding Through St. John Street in a Hearse, Reclining on the Coffin-Bed, and Smoking a Pipe.

What will women do next to distinguish themselves, we wonder! A female in Quebec, the other day, perpetrated a ghastly joke, mocking death in his own domain, by lying down in a hearse and smoking a pipe in a funeral chariot was driven through the street.

If this exhibition had been made in the United States, our neighbours at the North would have made it the subject of very strong animadversions.’

Social media husers both applauding her audacity and drawing parallels to modern culture. One user quipped, “You’ve heard of hotboxing, but she’s out here gothboxing.” Another mused, “You know the really good shit was still legal back then; she was probably pregaming with Absinthe and Laudanum. Maybe a little opium on her cannabis. She was definitely vibing.”

This fearless woman’s actions resonate with today’s notions of self-expression and unapologetic individuality. Some even commented that they would love to recreate her stunt, while others celebrated her as a symbol of rebellion and independence.

Quebec City, known for its rich history and cultural heritage, was the backdrop for this remarkable event. The city’s cobblestone streets and centuries-old architecture provided the perfect setting for her audacious ride. It’s not hard to imagine the astonished faces of passersby as they witnessed this unforgettable spectacle.

While the authenticity of the event has been questioned, with some suggesting it could have been a fabrication by The Illustrated Police News, the Quebec City Historical Society found no mention of the incident in any Canadian newspaper at the time, whether in French or English. It appears that this tale may have been a sensationalized piece of news created solely for London readers.

Nonetheless, this rediscovered story from the past has sparked a renewed interest in Quebec City’s history and the role of women in challenging societal norms. It serves as a reminder that, throughout history, there have always been individuals willing to push boundaries and redefine what is considered acceptable.

In an era where conformity often took precedence, this woman’s act of defiance was a breath of fresh air, even if it existed only in the imagination of distant readers in London. Her spirit and boldness continue to inspire those who hear her story, as evidenced by the enthusiastic response on social media.

So, as we look back on this curious incident from Quebec City’s past, we can’t help but appreciate the audacity of a woman who dared to be different, if only in the pages of a newspaper. She may have mocked death in his own domain, but she also left an indelible mark on the pages of history and the hearts of those who celebrate individuality and the irrepressible human spirit.