Tales Tombstones Tell Unearths Community History

West Chicago, Illinois: October 2, 2013 - For the past 23 years, the West Chicago City Museum has been showcasing the rich history of the community on a Friday evening in October. The 24th annual Tales Tombstones Tell program will be held on Friday, October 11, 2013 in Oakwood Cemetery, at York Street and Oakwood Avenue.

The public is invited to take a stroll through West Chicago's oldest cemetery, with lanterns and candlelight illuminating the way. Costumed interpreters serve as hosts for the evening, revealing the life stories of former residents who lived during the time of the American Civil War, including Union and Confederate soldiers. They tell tales common to many of those who lived during that time, transcending West Chicago's borders. Again this year, interpreters will also provide music to accompany the historic tales.

Tales Tombstones Tell is appropriate for families, is based on historical fact uncovered through new research, and does not contain ghost stories. Tours last approximately 45 minutes. They begin at 6:30 p.m. and run continuously about every 10 minutes, with the last tour getting started at 7:45 pm. No reservations are taken, it's first come, first served, and if the weather is inclement the program is cancelled.

Refreshments will be served after the program in St. Mary's Church basement. For twenty-two years St. Mary's has graciously provided a place for visitors to relax and refresh while they reflect on the stories just heard. Materials about the men and women discussed during the tour will also be on display.

Although the program is free, donations are encouraged. For more information, please call the Museum at (630) 231-3376 or email us at museum@westchicago.org.