Memories from the turn of the 20th century, the Civil War and a prominent family will highlight the Cemetery Walk in Montgomery Oct. 5.
Now entering its eighth year, members of the Historic Preservation Commission will help visitors walk through Riverside Cemetery from 7 to 8:30 p.m. to learn about past residents of the village.
Costumed actors will perform as historical figures as they stop at different grave sites. The famous residents chosen this year include a Civil War veteran who is buried on the grounds, a woman who lived through the Great Depression and then spent her years during World War II on the floors of a munitions factory, the earliest of the Albright/Albrecht family and a long-time farmer.
“The Albrecht family changed their name to Albright over the years but it was Gus Albrecht who immigrated from Germany to Montgomery in 1870,” said Village Clerk Debbie Buchanan.
Buchanan said the Cemetery Walk is not “scary” but one that is meant to educate people.
Visitors are to meet at the corner of River and Taylor streets on the south side of the cemetery. Groups depart every 10 minutes as they walk to the marked grave sites and listen to the actors.
Buchanan says work begins on next year’s event the day after the current walk ends.
Parking is available along River Street at the playground, at the north end of the park. Visitors are encouraged to bring a flashlight and wear sturdy shoes.
Judy Pochel is a freelance reporter for The Beacon-News