Batavia Cemetery Walk June 14 to highlight city founders

Did you know that Batavians have connection to characters highlighted in recent movies "The Monuments Men" and "12 Years a Slave?"

Did you know the concept of Mooseheart Child City and Moosehaven originated in the mind of a Batavian?

There is so much to learn of our city's heritage, and the Batavia Cemetery Walk is the place to learn so much about citizens of our past, who contributed not only to our local development, but in ways that bettered the lives of many in our country and across the globe.

Under the guidance of Leigh Tracy, treasurer of the Batavia Arts Council, this event is a fundraiser for both the Art Council and the Batavia Historical Society.

During the walk, visitors will meet William B. Van Nortwick, played by Dan Hoefler; Don Carlos Newton, played by George Scheetz; Alice and Lucile Gustafson, played by Diane Upton and Diane Blodget; Eunice Shumway, played by Carrie Schafer; Mary Prindle Newton, played by Lori Holm; Elijah Shumway Town, played by Dale Grischow; Rodney Brandon, played by Rodney Allen; and Samuel D. Lockwood, played by Tom Van Cleave.

During stops along the Cemetery Walk, these characters will share their stories, contributions and insights into their character, with tidbits regarding other family members who also helped in the development of Batavia's heritage.

The Cemetery Walk will begin at 2 p.m. Sunday, June 14, at the West Side Cemetery located on Batavia Avenue (Route 31) south of Wilson, with groups leaving the start location until 3:30 p.m.

The entire walk will take about 40 minutes, and tickets to the event are $10 each, and can be purchased in advance online at www.BataviaArtsCouncil.org under Events.

"June 14th is also Flag Day, which was originated by a Batavian, and the city is also hosting activities at the Peg Bond Center and Riverwalk immediately following the Cemetery Walk," said Tracy, encouraging citywide involvement.

The Batavia Arts Council is dedicated to supporting artists and art projects in our community through grants and scholarship. This is one of many fundraising events aimed at perpetuating this goal.