The last weekend in June I had the privilege of experiencing a portion of the Woodland Cemetery Living History Tour. The temperature exceeded 90 degrees Fahrenheit and the humidity fluctuated unpleasantly for part of the afternoon, but it was still a marvelous experience. I’ll be sharing some of the photos and stories in more depth later, but I wanted to “introduce” you to some of Woodland’s residents that I met.
Alvina Plastine was a Cleveland grocery store owner who died in 1913. The location of her burial is known, but there is no grave marker for her.
The extended Dickinson family at Woodland were represented by the parents of James Dickinson, a Civil War veteran and Cleveland Fire Chief, and his niece and nephew.
Musician Heinrich Beck described his education and endeavors in Cleveland.
A number of residents were represented by people dressed in the clothes of their period or figures not buried at Woodland with them.
Harry Handerson was a Confederate soldier in the Civil War who later returned to his birthplace in Cleveland. He was a respected doctor and medical historian who died in 1918. This lady told us about his life.
Clara Barton told of her friendship with General John Elwell, who is buried in Woodland Cemetery.
A Civil War soldier told us about George Ryan and all of the members of the 5th USCT (United States Colored Troops) buried in Woodland, as well as all the regiments.
I didn’t get to visit with all the volunteers before the end of the day rolled around, but I appreciated the time and energy they put into the living history display. I look forward to visiting them in the future.
A Grave Concern 