In a unique business pivot, the Top Hats and Tails Carriage Company has increasingly focused on funeral services in Detroit, reflecting a notable shift in demand during recent years. On a cold December day, the company provided a horse-drawn hearse for the funeral of 98-year-old Ruby Smith, a beloved matriarch known for her kindness and family gatherings. Owner John Balhorn discovered a growing need for such services as traditional options became less prevalent, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Balhorn, who has operated his business for over 25 years, initially gained recognition for providing carriage rides for weddings and other celebratory occasions. However, he recognized a significant demand for horse-drawn services at funerals, leading to a current schedule of two to three funerals each week across metro Detroit, Saginaw, and Flint. “Not many were doing it, and I saw a demand,” Balhorn stated, highlighting the connection he feels to the solemnity and dignity of funerals.
On the day of Smith’s funeral, Balhorn was joined by Cathy Hicks, a dedicated horse handler, as they prepared the two Percheron draft horses, Lady and Betsy, for the procession. The atmosphere was peaceful as the horses stood patiently in a snow-covered lot on Mount Elliott Street, awaiting the arrival of the coffin. Once the pallbearers transferred Smith’s polished ruby red coffin from a traditional hearse provided by QA Cantrell Funeral Services to the horse-drawn hearse, the procession began.
The journey to Elmwood Cemetery, a historic burial site established nearly 180 years ago, showcased the elegance of the carriage. The vehicle, reminiscent of a scene from an Edgar Allan Poe story, featured leaf springs and rubber-rimmed wheels to ensure a smooth ride. Its design allowed loved ones to view the coffin through wrapping glass windows, adding a personal touch to the experience.
Crystal Phillips, Smith’s granddaughter, expressed her desire to honor her grandmother’s legacy. “I wanted to make sure her homecoming was built for the queen she was,” she remarked, recalling Smith’s generosity and her role in starting family reunions in the 1970s. As the procession progressed, another family member noted, “This looks so good. You did right by her,” reflecting the family’s appreciation for the care taken in the arrangements.
Upon arriving at the cemetery, the family gathered for a graveside service as the sunset cast a warm glow on Smith’s coffin. The tranquil sound of the horses’ hooves gradually faded as Balhorn and Hicks prepared to pack up and return home, marking the end of a meaningful day for all involved.
As the landscape of funeral services continues to evolve, the Top Hats and Tails Carriage Company stands out for its commitment to providing dignified and heartfelt farewells, demonstrating the enduring significance of tradition in a changing world. For further details about their services, visit Top Hats and Tails online.
