Civil War Soldiers: A Walking Tour of Mount Avon Cemetery

When Avon’s sons heeded Abraham Lincoln’s call for troops and enlisted to defend a broken union, the town was thrust head first into America’s bloodiest conflict. By 1863, Avon’s first Civil War deaths had made their way to their eternal resting places in Rochester’s Mount Avon Cemetery. Hear the stories and visit the graves of these soldiers, from the cavalryman who died at Custer’s “First Last Stand” to the New Yorker who stood on the receiving end of Pickett’s Charge. The men that repose in Mount Avon fought at the infamous locales of Snodgrass Hill at Chickamauga, Marye’s Heights at Fredericksburg, the Wheatfield at Gettysburg, and the Crater at Petersburg. They suffered the horrors of Andersonville and Richmond’s Libby Prison. They marched to the sea with Sherman and marched to Appomattox with Grant. Almost every major battle of the “War Between the States” is represented in Mount Avon’s hallowed grounds. Join us for an entertaining and informational visit to the burial sites of Rochester’s Civil War heroes!

Join RAHS member and Civil War researcher Chris Brown on a tour of Mount Avon Cemetery in Rochester, MI. Chris will discuss the histories of the Civil War era soldiers and people laid to rest at Mt. Avon Cemetery.

This event is limited to 75 people. Attendees will meet at the Third Street entrance to the cemetery. Parking is allowed on the streets. Please wear comfortable shoes and clothing. The tour is expected to last about 2 hours.

This tour is free for RAHS members. Nonmembers are asked to consider a suggested $5 donation at the entrance.