The Clinton County History Center’s annual “Talking Tombstones: Living History Cemetery Walk” at Sugar Grove Cemetery in Wilmington, Ohio is back for its fifth year and offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of the region through a self-guided walking tour of costumed historical characters. Held annually, this event brings history to life by featuring different costumed interpreters who portray some of Clinton County’s most notable historical figures. These interpreters, stationed at their gravesites, share personal stories and historical insights, giving attendees a fascinating glimpse into the lives of those who helped shape the county.

The event is designed to be family-friendly and is open to all ages. Children 12 or younger can attend at no cost, with the purchase of an adult ticket. Visitors can expect to encounter a range of characters from different eras, each providing a window into the past amidst the serene and picturesque setting of Sugar Grove Cemetery, often referred to as an “outdoor museum.”

This year, the event will be held on Saturday, October 11 (rain date of October 18) with tours running every half-hour from 9:30 AM (*new, earlier time*) until 1:00 PM. Attendees are encouraged to arrive 5-10 minutes before their scheduled tour time to check in. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to the uneven terrain of the cemetery.

Tickets are priced at $25 for non-members and $20 for members, with children 12 or younger admitted free with a paying adult. Students, including university level, are invited to pay a reduced rate of $10 per ticket. Pre-sale tickets are available online, September 1st, or can be purchased in person at the History Center beginning Wednesday, September 3rd. Limited tickets may also be available at the cemetery on the day of the event, but it’s recommended to secure tickets in advance due to group sizing.

The event will proceed in most weather conditions, with a rain date scheduled for Sat. October 18 if necessary. This is not only a chance to learn about local history but also a significant fundraiser supporting the Clinton County History Center’s mission to preserve and promote the county’s rich heritage. For more information or to purchase tickets, please click this link or contact our office directly at 937-382-4684.

This award winning, comprehensive and immersive experience is a must-see with new actors and historical characters depicted each year!

ONLINE NOTICE: If you’re using the membership code to purchase your tickets online please refresh your browser once applied to ensure the code processes correctly. Due to a snag in the system, which we are unable to fix, a refresh of the page must happen in order for the membership discount to apply. Sorry for the confusion.

Local residents are set to bring the historical residents of Sugar Grove Cemetery to life Saturday, October 11, 2025 for the Clinton County History Center’s fifth annual Talking Tombstones cemetery walk.

These short character descriptions are only a snippet of what visitors can learn about each dearly departed community member during the Talking Tombstones tour. Character actors will share a 5- to 10-minute story of each local individual’s history.

The historical figures and those portraying them:

• Catharine Kline was the first person buried at Sugar Grove Cemetery; she died of tuberculosis at the age of 18 or 19. Catharine is being portrayed by Emila Knisley.

• Albert Israel Bailey helped to found Champion Bridge Company and Irwin Auger Bit, while also notably serving as director of Farquhar Furnace, president of Clinton County National Bank and heavily involved with the development of Bailey Hall at Wilmington College. A.I. is being played by Shane Breckel.

• Matthew Rombach, born and raised in Germany, settled in his 1850s historic home located in Wilmington before becoming one of the largest landowners. Rombach began investing in numerous causes and businesses, including a bakery downtown and held occupations via the Census ranging from farmer to stock dealer, banker, and eventually back to farmer. Ron Johnson will be portraying Matthew Rombach.

• Former Clinton County Commissioner Charles Skimming and his wife Martha were well known Wilmingtonians during their lifetimes, having resided in the stately white house on the hill near the former high school on Locust Street. Charles was active in farming land in Union Township until he was struck by a rusty nail that resulted in blood poisoning. Charles and Martha will be portrayed by Jonathan McKay and his future sister-in-law, Molly Boatman.

• Cush Leech, son of slaves, obtained his freedom and became well known in the Wilmington area and close friends with R.E. Doan’s family. Prior to the Civil War, while traveling through Jamestown, he was apprehended by slave catchers who refused to believe he was a free man. A group of local Quakers acted quickly to ensure a several hundred dollar fine was paid and escorted him back to Wilmington to ensure his safe passage. A Quaker Friend will be sharing Cush’s life story secondhand. This Quaker will be portrayed by Ethan Powles.

• Sugar Grove was originally designed and layout by Prussian-born immigrant, Leo Weltz. Both he and his wife, Elizabeth Anna Weltz, called Wilmington home for many years despite their early lives in Europe. Leo and Anna will be portrayed by Michael & Rebecca Cooper.

• Former Mayor, Congressman, and Secretary of State Charles Q. Hildebrant, as well as his wife, Adda, will be portrayed by Fred and Susan Ertel who have resided in the Hildebrant Family Home on S. South Street for some years.

• Robert Wickersham, originally from Pennsylvania, was a Clinton County home builder in his early life. One of his most recognizable structures still stands today, 175 years later, as the History Center’s museum. Robert is being portrayed by Community Band Director, Eric Stanton.

• Front gate “ghosts” who help to prepare guests for their tours will be portrayed by Shirley Pricket, Vicki Wilson, and Addie Mattingly.

All characters are being historically costumed and outfitted by Linda Rinehart. The Cycling Without Age trishaw, supported by the Clinton County Trails Coalition, will be available at no cost for various time slots for those with limited mobility.

To purchase tickets please click here. Day-of tickets will be available for purchase at the gates of Sugar Grove Cemetery. Tickets are priced at $25 for non-members and $20 for members, with children 12 or younger admitted free with a paying adult. A new student discount rate of $10 is available to those currently in school up through university level.

Self-guided walking tours begin every half hour between 9:30am and 1:00pm. A variety of additional cemetery history and symbolism will also be shared in each participant’s event brochure. This event serves as one of the History Center’s main fundraisers annually.

 

© Molly Boatman | http://mollyboatman.com