Spirits of History Haunt Augusta Cemetery This October

As the second oldest and second largest city in Georgia, many significant people have walked the historic streets of Augusta, Ga. and left their mark on the town. The city boasts several historic districts commemorating its rich past. Augustans claim that the spirits of those who founded the city and who helped shape it into what it is today never truly left. This October, come experience "Walk with the Spirits," in Magnolia Cemetery and determine for yourself if the tales are true.

For those daring enough to seek these spirits, Historic Augusta, Inc. invites locals and visitors on a special trip through time during "Walk with the Spirits" at the historic Magnolia Cemetery on Saturday, Oct. 10 and Sunday, Oct. 11, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. The cost is $15 for adults, $10 for children and $10 per person for groups of ten or more. To purchase tickets or for more information, please contact Historic Augusta, Inc. by telephone at 706-724-0436, or visit www.historicaugusta.org. The tour is not recommended for children under the age of 5. Refreshments will be provided.

In 1817, a 60-acre plot of land east of Augusta was deeded to the city by a local prominent family, the De L'aigle's. The site originally held an old plantation near the Savannah River but was transformed into the city cemetery. The cemetery was named "Magnolia" for the beautiful stand of trees which gives the grave yard a park-like atmosphere. The first official burial was made in September of 1817, but the oldest known grave is believed to date back to 1800. Magnolia Cemetery now holds more than 35,000 graves, five Jewish cemeteries, a Greek cemetery, a Masonic Lodge section, a Confederate section and a number of church sections.

During a 45-minute tour guided by spirit impersonators, participants will hear such stories as how the lights reflect off tombstones to a man in a top hat and trench coat walking along the side of Magnolia Cemetery. Rumor says that as soon as he is spotted, the figure disappears into the brick wall surrounding the cemetery. Also, guests will learn about the iconography of the headstones as well as be introduced to notable Augusta residents who are buried there. Along the route, visitors will encounter a number of significant spirits such as graves of seven Confederate generals, one of the South's most distinguished poets, Paul Hamilton Hayne, Charles Dawson Tilley, a man who was killed in the last duel fought at Sand Bar Ferry, a master carpenter stationed at the original U.S. Arsenal near Augusta in 1819 and a former mayor of Augusta.