Farewell Widow Norton- The Imperial State Funeral of José Julio Sarria
Her Imperial Highness, José Julio Sarria I. The Widow Norton. Empress of San Francisco, Queen Forever
It was on a cold damp evening, 133 years ago that His Imperial Majesty, Joshua Abraham Norton I entered immortality on the steps of Saint Mary’s Cathedral in Chinatown. The city wept in great frenzy and many have kept his devotion in the many years since, one such devotee being our own dear Editor-In-Cheap.
His Imperial Highness, Joshua Abraham Norton I
Emperor of San Francisco and the United Sates of America
Protector of México
The House of Norton-Sarria
1859- 2013
Requiescat In Pacem
However, no one kept his memory quite so well in service, guardianship and love of His beloved realm as did His much, much younger consort, Her Imperial Majesty, José Julio Sarria I, Empress of San Francisco, The Widow Norton, who followed her lord this past week, on 22 August at the age of 90 in her warm New Mexican rancho. Some may say she was holding vigil long enough to see the late emperor’s trans-bay vision restored this past week.
Like her liege before her, a state funeral is being held this morning, which the city will throng to as well, no doubt. At Grace Cathedral, atop Nob Hill, overlooking her former court at The Black Cat Tavern members of her court, visiting regents and dignitaries and her loyal subjects will pay her final tribute and remember not only the larger than life presence, but the activist and friend. The entire realm is welcome and formal mourning attire encouraged.
Following the rite, she will be interned to final rest next to His Majesty, Norton I, in the Royal plot in Colma, where she held annual processions to his memory for decades.
After, the Lookout in the Castro will open its doors and host a reception for the many bereaved and slightly parched.
Farewell, dear Empress- native daughter and true California gold in every way.
Your Hounoured Subjects and Scribes,
The Broke-Ass Stuart Editors and Staff
xo
Imperial State Funeral of José Julio Sarria I, Empress of San Francisco, The Widow Norton
11:00 a.m.
Grace Cathedral
1100 California Street (@Taylor)
[Nob Hill]
SF
Internment of Her Royal Majesty, José Julio Sarria I
Following Rites and Imperial Cortege
Woodlawn Cemetery
1000 El Camino Real (@ F Street)
Colma
Imperial Funeral Reception
Following Internment
The Lookout
3600 16th Street (@Market & Noe)
[Castro/ Eureka Valley]
SF
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