Tales Tombstones Tell Offers a Unique Approach to History
Friday, October 5, 2007
6:30 p.m. - approx. 8:00 p.m.
Oakwood Cemetery
Oakwood & York Avenue in West Chicago

West Chicago, Illinois: October 2, 2007 -
Grave markers have long fascinated those with a penchant for history and a curiosity about the lives they commemorate. Oakwood Cemetery at Oakwood and York Avenue in West Chicago is filled with monuments that if given the ability to speak, would tell inspiring stories of bravery, fortitude, and adventure.

For 17 years, the City Museum has welcomed thousands of people to an annual event that has grown consistent local and regional appeal. This year, the 18th Annual Tales Tombstones Tell, on Friday, October 5, 2007, promises once again to provide an engaging event for the entire family. Starting at 6:30 p.m. with the last tour at 7:45 p.m., history comes to life through costumed interpreters who reveal the life stories of selected former residents of West Chicago buried at the cemetery. The 40 minute tours are based on historical fact, not fiction or legend, and serve to enlighten, educate and entertain those that are interested in making connections to colorful personalities that helped shape present day West Chicago.

This year, visitors will hear stories about eight such individuals, with only one repeated from last year. The interesting lives include that of an English immigrant who sailed to the U.S. in 1849 at the age of 12 and who later became known for building many of the early homes in West Chicago; a German immigrant who had ties to the railroad and then as one of the first Main Street merchants; and a woman whose life touched so many people with her fine character that she received a glowing eulogy at her death.

City Museum curator Sally DeFauw, the event's researcher and writer, has enjoyed watching Tales Tombstones Tell grow in attendance and popularity over the past 18 years. She readily admits, "The great thing about the evening's event is that we get people from all over the suburbs and people who would never set foot in a museum. But, feature a cemetery, and they're there. They enjoy themselves so much hearing the stories that they don't even know they're learning history."

Visitors will also enjoy period music at three of the gravesites and refreshments will be served afterward in St. Mary's Church basement, which is adjacent to Oakwood Cemetery. Admission is free. For more information, contact the City Museum at (630) 231-3376.

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