Historical society unearths hidden history with cemetery tour
SHARON – The Sharon Historical Society, in conjunction with the Oakwood Cemetery Association, is celebrating the return of their Oakwood Cemetery Tours: The Stories Within. These guided tours will include an orientation at the Veteran's Bandstand followed by stops at nine points of interest throughout the Cemetery, many of which are new this year. Escorts will lead attendees in small groups to these preplanned stops. A historic interpreter will then provide biographical information about the person(s) interred at each location.
Stops will include the Buhl Chapel and mausoleum, Billy Whitla “The Kidnapped Boy”, avid historian, writer, and world-traveler Sarah Graham Morrison, relocated West Hill graves, the famous Gypsy Queen, family mausoleums, musician Ty Longley, several African American pioneers, and chocolatier and businessman Pete Daffin. A special souvenir booklet detailing the tour stops and other interesting facts about Oakwood Cemetery will be provided to participants. The Sharon Historical Society will also have a tent where memberships and additional merchandise can be purchased.
There will be two identical tour sessions, one starting at 10:00 a.m. and one starting at 2:00 p.m. It is suggested to arrive 30 minutes early to allow for parking, registration, and walking to the orientation area. No vehicle traffic will be allowed inside the Cemetery, other than directed parking in assigned areas.
“We are proud to once again host this fabulous event to showcase the rich heritage of the Shenango Valley,” said Taylor Galaska, Society President and Marketing Director. “We have partnered with Oakwood Cemetery Association again to offer this event with new stops on the tour.”
Brian Kepple, Society board member and event co-chairman, said, “Last year we received feedback about the tour concerning ethnic diversity. We took that to heart. This year we wanted to explore locals who made an impact, including members of the African American community.”
The tour, which takes place on Saturday, June 8 at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., will involve approximately 1.5 miles of walking on rolling, uneven terrain. The estimated length of the walk is nearly 2.5 hours. Limited seating will be available at each stop. Be aware that participants will be on their feet for the entire event. Please wear appropriate shoes and attire for the weather. These tours require $10 per attendee on the day of the event. No advanced reservations are needed.
The event will be at Oakwood Cemetery, 600 North Oakland Ave. Sharon, PA 16146 on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Cash or check will be accepted at registration for the $10 tour price. Volunteers will direct attendees and traffic. Attendees should enter the main gates on North Oakland Avenue. Please park and proceed to registration at the Veteran’s Grandstand by the Ormond Avenue entrance.