Canton's Annual Cemetery Walk Brings History to Life

By: Forgottonia Times™ Report

On September 29th, 2024, the Canton Area Heritage Center will host its annual Cemetery Walk at Greenwood Cemetery, offering a rare opportunity for residents and visitors to explore the rich history of Canton through the lives of its most notable past citizens. The event, set to begin at 3:30 p.m., has grown into a beloved community tradition, reflecting both the town’s history and its commitment to preserving the stories of those who came before.

Originally started by the Canton Women’s Club in 2010 as part of the Big Read program, the Cemetery Walk was handed over to the Canton Heritage Museum in 2019 after a brief hiatus. This year marks the tenth iteration of the event, now firmly established as an annual celebration of Canton’s heritage.

“This year’s presentation, ‘Memories of the Past,’ will depict six outstanding individuals interred in Greenwood Cemetery,” said Mike Walters of the Canton Area Heritage Center. “Every year, we ask the public for their input on who they would like to learn about. Occasionally, someone provides us with a name, and then our research begins.” The Cemetery Walk offers an intimate experience, where participants are guided from headstone to headstone, meeting local performers who portray these selected figures and recount key episodes of their lives.

The walk is not just a history lesson but a way for the community to connect personally with the stories of those who shaped Canton’s past. “It’s a very personal way for residents to celebrate our town’s history,” Walters said. “Participants hear colorful historical stories about some of Greenwood Cemetery’s most interesting residents, shining a light on the people who made our community what it is today.”

This year’s event will be held on the last Sunday in September, as has become tradition over the past six years. The walk is scheduled for two sessions: the first, a seated performance at 3:30 p.m. in front of the cemetery’s historic mausoleum, and the second, a walking tour that begins at 5:00 p.m. south of the mausoleum. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs for their comfort during the performances. Golf carts will be available for those with special needs to assist with transportation from the parking lot to the mausoleum.

The Cemetery Walk is one of the Canton Heritage Museum’s major fundraising events. “The cost of the tour is free, but donations are greatly appreciated,” Walters noted. “A team of researchers, actors, and supporters put countless hours of preparation into each year’s walk to create a remarkable experience.” This year, a DVD of the mausoleum performance will be available for purchase, with proceeds supporting the Heritage Museum’s ongoing efforts.

The Greenwood Cemetery, a 122-acre historic site, has been the focus of recent preservation efforts by the City of Canton. Last year, the city undertook several significant projects, including repairing the mausoleum’s roof, gutters, and downspouts, as well as power-washing and tuckpointing the exterior limestone. Additional work this year included replacing the limestone steps and installing ADA-compliant handrails, ensuring the cemetery remains a dignified and accessible site for future generations.

As Canton prepares to celebrate another year of this cherished event, the Cemetery Walk remains a powerful reminder of the importance of honoring the past while looking toward the future. Mark your calendars for September 29th and join the Canton Area Heritage Center for what promises to be a memorable and enlightening experience.