Cemeteries are, many times, perceived as quiet, somber and lifeless places where heads look down and we speak in low tones out of respect for our surroundings.

Historic Mount Bethel Cemetery, located on 10 acres in uptown Columbia at 700 Locust Street will change that perception on Sunday, September 18th with a lively event meant to entertain, educate and inform attendees from 2pm until dusk.

Join us for our first annual fundraiser event “Living History in Mount Bethel Cemetery – One Story at a Time – Honoring Veterans”. The day’s events will include Children’s Activities, organized by local educator at Park School, Jane Moore; Cemetery tours, “Honoring Veterans” created by Janet Wood of Regalia Costumers; a Benefit Art Show and Sale in the Caretaker Cottage organized by local artist Dale Weibley featuring six local artists depicting the beauty that is Mount Bethel.

The day’s activities culminate in a spectacular luminary event beginning at 5:30 featuring the Red Rose VFW Post #2435 Band followed by John F. Hinkle, Jr. who will serve as the Master of Ceremonies beginning at 6:30, and guest speaker, USMC retired Chief Warrant Office – 4, Ed Wickenhiser. The lighting of the luminaries will begin at dusk with taps and other exciting surprises.

Admission to this event is $5.00 for adults; $3.00 for students 6-18; under 6 is free and covers all events.

A food vendor will be available and luminaries can be purchased at the cemetery at $5.00.

Luminaries can be purchased to honor a veteran, friend or family member.

Beautiful bronzed Veteran Medallions will also be available for sale, $25.00 for medallions or $65.00 for medallions with attached flag holders. Medallions can be purchased separated or installed on veteran monuments within Mount Bethel for an additional $10.00 fee.

Join the Mount Bethel Cemetery Company, a 501 (c) (13) non profit cemetery, this Sunday, September 18 for this exciting event. All proceeds benefit the maintenance and perpetuation of the Mount Bethel Cemetery.