Kane County Reporter

The Montgomery Historic Preservation Commission will host its annual Cemetery Walk on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at Riverside Cemetery. The event begins at 7 p.m. and is open to visitors of all ages.

During the walk, attendees will be guided in small groups through the cemetery, where local actors portray early Montgomery settlers and other notable figures buried there. This year’s featured stories include a 19th-century minister, a Keck family descendant who lived to age 105, a World War II veteran who built his own home, and a business owner whose grandchildren lived in what is now known as Settlers Cottage.

"This cemetery walk, geared towards all ages, is not a scary event, but rather an authentic glimpse into history with local actors portraying people from the past. Each year, the Historic Preservation Commission works to highlight new stories from the lives of real people who lived in our community. This year’s event features a 19th-century minister, a Keck family descendant who lived to be 105 years old, a WWII veteran who built his own house, and a local business owner whose grandchildren lived in what we now call Settlers Cottage."

Tours will start every ten minutes between 7 p.m. and 8 p.m., beginning at the corner of River and Taylor Streets on the southeast side of Riverside Cemetery. Parking is available along River Street near Montgomery Park. Attendees are encouraged to bring flashlights and wear sturdy shoes for safety.

Old Montgomery street signs will be sold for $10 each during the event; proceeds support the Historic Preservation Commission’s efforts. Complimentary refreshments will be provided by Dieterle Memorial Home.

"Montgomery’s Historic Preservation Commission, a volunteer-led organization committed to preserving the history of the Village, organizes the Cemetery Walk. There is no charge for this event. In the event of rain, the Cemetery Walk will take place on Thursday, October 2, at the same time and location."

Further information can be requested via email at hpc@ci.montgomery.il.us or found online at montgomeryil.org and on the Village of Montgomery’s Facebook page.