New this year to the Farmersville Historical Society Candlelight Tour is the mock “live wake” of the youngest daughter, Margaret (Maggie), who tragically died at age 12. Courtesy photo

For those brave enough to explore the eerie past of the Bain-Honaker House, the home will once again set the scene for the Farmersville Historical Society’s Candlelight Tours.

The annual event, Oct. 18-19, promises an immersive journey through the lives of the house’s former residents, blending true history with a touch of the supernatural.

“Let’s kick off the second annual Candlelight Tours & Live Wake at the Historic Bain-Honaker House,” said Heidi Foist, president of the Historical Society. “The house of widows is the true history of the house. On this tour, you may shed tears, you may have some fears, but most of all, you will leave with a souvenir.”

This year’s tours feature the stories of five widows—Anna-Melissa, Dora, Cassie, Mary (Molly), and Catherine—each brought to life through improved scripts written by former president Bertie Neu based on the home’s rich history.

New this year is the “live wake”— also based on the home’s history—of the youngest daughter, Margaret (Maggie), who tragically died at age 12.

“This will be a very emotional room,” Foist said. “Last year, people cried on the tour, so I know that this year will be the same.”

The wake scene, complete with a handmade coffin and a lifelike representation of Maggie, is designed to evoke both sorrow and reflection. Visitors will also receive a Victorian wake card featuring Maggie’s photo and life story as a keepsake.

The legend of “The Bell” will be prominently featured during the wake, adding a somber layer of Victorian tradition. In those days, a bell would be tied to a deceased person’s finger so they could signal if they were alive—a haunting reminder of past funeral practices.

Outside, while guests wait for their tours, they can enjoy free popcorn, music, fog machines, and other atmospheric elements.

“It will be entertaining,” Foist said.

While the event is designed to engage and educate, it also serves a greater purpose.

“All sales go towards the preservation of the Bain-Honaker House,” Foist said. “Tickets are $5 each, and all proceeds benefit the Historical Society’s ongoing efforts to maintain the property.

With Saturday tours nearly sold out, a new tour date has been added Friday, Oct.18, from 6 to 8 p.m. Reservations are highly recommended as the event fills up quickly. Those interested can visit farmersvilletxhistoricalsociety.com or follow their social media updates to secure a spot in this unique historical experience.

“Tours are by candlelight only. Entering is at your own risk,” Foist said. “Have your phones charged. We want to see all the pics you take this year.”

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