Westlake Historical Society holds history lesson at Evergreen Cemetery

Evergreen Cemetery will be the site of a history tour on May 16. Photo by Dave Pfister

One of the best places to learn about the people of a particular town is in the local cemetery. You can learn about when they lived, died, and who made up their family tree.

When the founders first arrived in our area, then known as Western Reserve Range 15, in 1810, it was found to be a wild and new place covered by trees as well as bears, deer and other inhabitants.

On May 16, noon to 3 p.m., you will have the opportunity to learn more about our history when members of the Westlake Historical Society and their friends re-enact the roles of some of Westlake's noteworthy residents. This yearly tour of Evergreen Cemetery, 29535 Center Ridge Road, is always a favorite way to experience history. 

Some of the residents to be featured on the tour include:

Leverett Johnson, the person credited with founding the southern portion of the original Dover Township (now Westlake). Some of his land was donated for Evergreen Cemetery.

May Weston, a former school teacher in Dover. She also wrote the book "100 Years Of Dover Schools." She was instrumental in the early years of the Westlake Historical Society.

Other residents to be featured are: Walter Clague, Jedediah Crocker, Dr. Celia Clemens, Leonard Porter, and Jack Miner, the world-renowned conservationist who was born here 150 years ago this year.

There is no cost to attend, although donations to the society are gratefully accepted. Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes for walking. Refreshments will be served at the end of the tour. You will also be able to purchase Westlake-themed Cat's Meow pieces that day. For more information, call 216-848-0680 or visit westlakeohiohistory.org.