Join us to learn about the connections between Belpre, Ohio’s second oldest permanent settlement, and several military veterans and their families. Stories include: an early settler who lost a grandfather at Valley Forge and a husband shortly after his return from the Mexican War; a founder who died protecting the civilians at Belpre’s Farmer’s Castle during the Indian War; a woman who lost both a husband and stepson in the Civil War; and a Marine killed in France just two weeks before the armistice. We’ll also discuss three World War II veterans killed in action: Navy seaman Howard McPeek in a Kamikaze attack at Okinawa, Corporal Walter Gearhart – during a secret D-Day training exercise, and Private Russell Dexter at the Battle of Hürtgen Forest. Lastly will be a story of a Korean War casualty lost fighting in the sub-zero temperatures at Chosin Reservoir.
Cost: $12
Tour begins at Rockland Cemetery (9 Rockland Cemetery Rd, Belpre, OH)
Our tour guide will use an enhanced speaker system to ensure adequate audio levels.
Member Discounts: If you are currently a Contributing, Patron, or Lifetime member of The Castle, please use coupon code “castlemember” at checkout to apply your membership benefits. (Contributing - $60: Free admission to 2 cemetery tours, Patron - $120: Free admission to 4 cemetery tours.)
Cemetery Tour Tips:
· Tours last up to one hour and 15 minutes
· Walking takes place across uneven ground and between headstones
· You’ll be standing at some locations for around 10 – 15 minutes
· Check the weather and dress accordingly
· Bringing water, walking sticks, or easily carried folding chairs is encouraged
· When you arrive at the cemetery, if you already have a reservation or tickets check-in with the Castle team member with a clipboard.
· Unless otherwise noted, tickets will continue to be sold onsite. Paying for your admission with exact change is appreciated.
By purchasing these tickets you consent to the use of photographs from this event being used for promotional purposes.