Cemetery Tour Will Bring The Ghosts Of Long Valley To Life

LONG VALLEY, NJ — The Old Stone Union Church in Long Valley has many tales to tell. And just in time for Halloween, a tour of the historic cemetery is planned for Saturday.

Residents will be able to step back in time and experience the captivating stories of the past with the Washington Township Historical Society as they conduct live tours of the Old Union Cemetery, located at 6 Fairview Avenue, from 6 to 8 p.m.

The walking tours will last about 50 to 60 minutes in length and will be conducted in small groups, moving from one graveside to the next.

Guests will be led into the historic cemetery by lantern light, where they will meet costumed reenactors who will tell the stories of former residents interred at the graveside.

From farmers to blacksmiths, stone carvers to suffragettes, and even soldiers and victims of the Revolutionary War, the cemetery holds tales of Washington Township's rich history waiting to be discovered.

"With each step, you will be transported to a time long past, as the stories etched in the gravesides come alive through the vivid portrayals of the reenactors. Listen in awe as they share the struggles, triumphs, and secrets of the past, shedding light on the lives of those who once called Washington Township home," officials said.

The cemetery tours will be open to the public, although residents should note that they may not be suitable for individuals needing wheelchairs or children in strollers due to the terrain.

Parking will be free at Zion Lutheran Church, 11 Schooleys Mountain Road, Long Valley, a three-minute walk from the Union Church Cemetery. Because this is a nighttime event, guests will be escorted from the parking lot to Fairview Avenue via Schooley's Mountain Road.

Attendees are asked not to park at the Coffee Potter or the Firehouse.

Tickets reserved in advance here are only $10 for adults and $5 for children under the age of 12. Register here to receive this special ticket pricing (one registration per family member). Payment for tickets with this advance registration is not collected online but must be made on the day of the tour.

On the day of the tour, tickets will be $15 for adults and $8 for children under the age of 12.

"Don't miss this exceptional opportunity to delve into the fascinating history of Washington Township and create memories that will last a lifetime. Join the Washington Township Historical Society for an unforgettable evening of storytelling and discovery among the tombstones," officials said.