Do you want to find out a more about the Edmonds Memorial Cemetery and Columbarium? Be sure to attend the Thursday, July 19 “Walk Back in Time” cemetery tour and learn about Edmonds history through the people buried there.

The guided tour, which starts at 1 p.m., is conducted by members of the Cemetery Board dressed in period costumes. The tour is divided into three sections and lasts approximately 45 minutes. In addition to the guides, there will be several “ghosts” throughout the cemetery telling their life stories, including a special appearance by Edmonds founder George Brackett, portrayed by local actor John Hartquist.

The 6.5-acre cemetery was founded in 1891 by the Independent Order of Odd Fellows Lodge. Over the next century, numerous owners managed the site until 1982 when Larry Hubbard, an Edmonds businessman, purchased the site and gave it to the City of Edmonds to maintain and operate. Some people may remember at the time that Hubbard bought the property, it was unkempt and overgrown. Thanks to the efforts of dedicated volunteers it was restored to the scenic landmark that it is today. The most recent addition to the cemetery is the columbarium, completed in October 2006 and located in the northeast corner of the grounds.

Some graves date as far back as the Spanish American and Civil Wars. There are also many Edmonds pioneers and 14 of the city’s 34 mayors buried in the cemetery.

The Edmonds Memorial Cemetery and Columbarium is located at 100th Avenue West and 15th Street Southwest, one block north of the Westgate QFC. Street parking is available. The tour is free and refreshments will be served.