HPS offers more local history via October cemetery tours

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

The Heritage Preservation Society of Putnam County is planning its annual Cemetery Tours during the month of October.

Three dates have been set for this year's trio of tours. On Saturdays, Oct. 15 and 22 tour groups will meet at the Old Greencastle Cemetery (aka Blackstock) at 6 p.m., where local historian Larry Tippin will present historical information on the cemetery, its grave markers and individuals buried within.

By car caravan, the tours will then continue to the Boone-Hutcheson Cemetery, final resting place for some of Daniel Boone's family in the picturesque cemetery situated on a hill above Houck Covered Bridge.

Returning from the cemetery to the First Christian Church in Greencastle, participants may continue on a second tour. On Oct. 15, a walking tour of the DePauw University campus and on Oct. 22 a walking tour of the courthouse square will leave from the First Christian Church at 8:30 p.m.

Guides Maribeth Ward and David English will share history and folklore relating to the two areas. Participants in the evening tours may enjoy refreshments at the church provided by HPS members.

The two portions of the evenings' offerings may be enjoyed separately or in combination with tickets priced accordingly.

On Sunday, Oct. 23 a nostalgic visit to Forest Hill Cemetery in Greencastle is scheduled.

The cemetery holds the gravesites of many of Putnam County's citizens who have contributed to the fabric of the community. These are the ancestors of many of today's citizens.

Some, like the legendary Pearl Bryant, are familiar for other reasons.

The prominent Civil War Soldiers Monument stands as a reminder of Putnam County soldiers who fought in the epic War Between the States.

The history of the monument and the lives of several soldiers of the conflict will be elaborated on by Ken Anderson of the Civil War Roundtable, who will nearly return these soldiers to life with his presentation.

The Sunday afternoon visit to Forest Hill will be from 1-4 p.m. Refreshments will be available.

As planning concludes, readers can watch for additional information, time schedules and ticket pricing. Special pricing for families of three or more will be available.

For additional information persons may call 522-1430 or email putnamheritage@gmail.com.

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