A History Speaks Event.

A few of UA’s most famous residents—Woody Hayes and Dave Thomas—are buried in Union Cemetery. This tour flips that commonly-known script. We will explore the older section of the cemetery, near Olentangy River Road and W Dodridge Street, and the lives of lesser-known individuals who settled on our community’s lands in the 1800s.

Before there was an “Upper Arlington,” pioneers came to this area—then called Perry Township—to forge a new life. When Union Cemetery opened as a public burial ground in 1847, its proximity created a desirable option for burials beyond the small family cemeteries that once dotted our landscape.

This walking tour will respectively travel over the grassy grounds and visit the gravesites of several men and women who shaped that era of our community’s landscape. Additionally, Union Cemetery representatives will discuss the early history of the cemetery grounds and lead a short tour of Amanrath Abbey.

No registration required. Meeting place is Amaranth Abbey with parking available along its horseshoe lane. Please wear appropriate shoes and be able to walk on uneven ground. We will record video of the tour for public display. Tour followed by a reception at the Union Cemetery office.

Weather permitting. Updates will be found here and posted on social media / email.

Gravestones dot the landscape in the old section of Union Cemetery.