The Historical Society of Long Beach will present its 13th Annual Historical Cemetery Tour on Saturday, October 25, a unique and entertaining daytime event that creates a “living history” in Long Beach’s two oldest cemeteries at 1095 E. Willow Street between California and Orange. Thousands of people have taken the tour over the past 12 years.
Participants on each tour will learn first hand that every cemetery plot has a story. And, because this is the tour’s 13th anniversary, “Unlucky 13″ is the underlying theme. A special exhibit will explain the common superstitions and history associated with the number 13 and triskaidekaphobia (fear of the number 13).
Each of this year’s 10 grave-side stories recounts a character’s life and accomplishments, their contributions and influence to the history of Long Beach, and then focuses on the ultimate stroke of bad luck that sent them to meet their maker. Every script is meticulously researched using the Historical Society of Long Beach’s archives and primary sources.
Every graveside story is told by a costumed actor who brings his or her character back to life, if only for a day. This year’s stories include Thomas Borden, one of Long Beach’s first law officers. His life ended at home with a bullet from his own service revolver. What were the circumstances of this terrible crime?
Rip-roaring barnstormer Ethel Broadwick was a daredevil aviation pioneer and a wing-walking stunt person. Her husband designed the first parachutes, which she regularly tested for him. What happened to her a thousand feet in the sky?
The tour’s volunteer actors come from all walks of life. They include teachers, retirees, business professionals and even a politician. This year Long Beach Mayor Bob Foster plays farm worker Alyandro Banderas, who was shot in a poker game in 1915.
In addition to the graveside presentations, local artist Daniel Martinez will teach tourgoers about ofrenda making (an offering for an alter), a craft associated with the Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebration. Visitors will be able to make ofrendas and relate them to stories of those buried at the cemeteries. And a “reporter” will finally explain why Long Beach was long known as “Iowa by the Sea.”
Visitors can spend the entire morning walking the tours and exploring the cemetery on their own. First tour starts at 9 a.m.; last tour starts at noon. Tours take about two hours. Admission is $18.
