Sixth Annual Cemetery Walk a Success

The sixth annual Hampton Cemetery Walk took place Sunday, May 6. 

Eighty three people attended, according to Jim Davies, who helped coordinate the event, which took place at the Hampton Cemetery at 1 and 2 p.m. There were two walks.

A cemetery walk is a route through the cemetery with stops at gravesites. At each site, a person tells the story of the deceased, often dressed in period clothing. Members of the Franklin County Arts Council volunteer as storytellers. Over the years, 16 different people have portrayed the 35 historical encounters. 

This year, the historical encounters were played by the following individuals: Leon Kuehner as Judge Uhlenhopp (1915-1986), Moli Gerken as Fran Wulibrandt (1921-2017), Maggie Pearson as Blanche Paine (1893-1975), Wally Tapp as Lt. Wendell Hicks (1918- 1945), and Rick Janssen as Deke Walker (1892-1957). 

Those who attended paid a $10 fee and could either walk through the cemetery or take the trolley. 

"We are pleased with the turnout,” said Paul Flint, chair of Friends of the Hampton Cemetery. “In spite of weather concerns earlier in the day, over 80 people attended, which is down from previous years. Three new sponsors helped support the program. The money raised will continue to be used to help maintain the cemetery."

The event was made possible by Friends of the Cemetery volunteers and guides, Franklin County Arts Council presenters, Howard and Guyla Pohlman, Sietsema-Atkinson Funeral Home, Woodley Funeral Home and Cremators, Claypool Farms, Vosburg Family Trolley, Butson Tractor Repair, Hampton Police Department, City of Hampton, Cemetery staff, Franklin County Historical Museum, Greater Franklin County Chamber of Commerce, Mid-America Publishing/Hampton Chronicle and KLMJ 104.9. 

"Those attending enjoyed and appreciated the fantastic job the actors did becoming the person, dressing the part while sharing information and stories,” said Jim Davies, a member of the Friends of the Hampton Cemetery group. “I appreciate the opportunity to research each person featured on the walk which often includes connecting with relatives. The Friends of the Cemetery welcome new volunteers to join our group. We have already begun consideration of people to include on next year's walk and welcome suggestions."