Oak Park-River Forest|Local Event
35th Annual "Tale of the Tombstones" Cemetery Walk
The Historical Society of Oak Park and River Forest will host its 35th annual “Tale of the Tombstones” Cemetery Walk starting at noon Sunday, Oct. 18, at Forest Home Cemetery, 863 Desplaines Ave., Forest Park.
The Historical Society held its first Cemetery Walk in 1992 as a fundraiser to restore the monument of Ashbel Steele, the first white resident of what later became River Forest. Over the decades it’s grown into a popular fall tradition with costumed actors being added. Proceeds benefit the Historical Society.
In recognition of the ongoing 250th anniversary of the nation, this year’s Cemetery Walk theme is “American Movements,” used both figuratively and literally. Our actors will tell the stories of past residents who have participated in some sort of “movement.” One of those “residents” to be featured is Capt. Charles C. Stannard who kept ships moving on Lake Superior after discovering a hazardous underwater mountain in 1847. Hear more of his story on this year’s walk.
Groups of visitors will be led through this historic and beautiful cemetery by trained guides who will point out impressive monuments, mysterious symbols, and burial traditions that span 150 years. At intervals throughout the walk, the groups will stop to hear from the actors.
Tours start every 10 minutes between noon and 1:30 p.m. Choose the starting time for your tour when you purchase your tickets. A tour typically lasts between 90 minutes and two hours.
Tickets can be purchased in our online history store at oprfmuseum.org or by calling the museum at 708-848-6755. Tickets cost $25; $20 for members. Space on the tours is limited.