Fort Wayne residents have a chance to blend local history with spooky fun this weekend. The Allen County Public Library hosts the Haunted Forest Lindenwood Tour from October 24 to 26 at the historic Lindenwood Cemetery.
This free event draws crowds each year by mixing tales of the city’s past with eerie forest adventures. It kicks off Family History Month celebrations and highlights how everyday spots hold hidden stories.
Discover the Thrill of the Haunted Forest Tour
The tour starts with a guided walk through Lindenwood Cemetery. Visitors learn about famous locals buried there and their impact on Fort Wayne’s growth.
Guides share gripping stories under the evening sky. The atmosphere turns mysterious as the group moves to the nearby Lindenwood Nature Preserve.
Northrop High School theatre students add excitement. They dress up and create spooky scenes in the woods to bring history alive in a fun way.
This setup lets families enjoy learning without feeling like a classroom lesson. Many attendees say it sparks interest in their own family roots.
Uncover Lindenwood Cemetery’s Storied Past
Lindenwood Cemetery opened in 1859 and became a key site for Fort Wayne’s elite. It joined the National Register of Historic Places in 1978 for its cultural value.
The grounds hold over 80,000 graves from various eras. Civil War soldiers rest here, including Colonel Sion Bass who fought in key battles.
Outlaws like Homer Van Meter from the Dillinger gang also found their final spot. His 1934 death marked the end of a wild crime spree.
Leaders such as Judge Samuel Hanna shaped early laws and land deals. Allen Hamilton built businesses that boosted the area’s economy.
These figures show how one cemetery captures a city’s full timeline. Tours help people connect dots from past events to today’s life.
Here are some notable residents buried at Lindenwood:
- Judge Samuel Hanna: Early settler and judge who helped form Allen County.
- Allen Hamilton: Businessman whose work laid foundations for Fort Wayne’s railroads.
- Colonel Sion Bass: Union Army veteran wounded in the Civil War.
- Homer Van Meter: Infamous gangster linked to John Dillinger.
Student Performers Bring Mystery to Life
Northrop High School’s theatre group plays a big role each year. Students rehearse for weeks to craft haunted paths in the preserve.
They use costumes, lights, and sounds to scare and surprise. One scene might reenact a ghost story from cemetery lore.
This hands-on project teaches kids about local history too. It builds skills in acting and teamwork while serving the community.
Parents praise how it gets teens involved in cultural events. Donations from visitors support the school’s theatre program directly.
The collaboration with ACPL shows strong ties between schools and libraries. It creates a win for education and entertainment.
Event Schedule and Practical Tips
Planning makes the experience smooth for everyone. Tours run three nights with set start times to handle groups safely.
Weather in late October can vary, so dress in layers. Comfortable shoes help for the walking and wooded paths.
The event suits all ages but younger kids might find parts scary. Families often go together to share the adventure.
| Date | Start Times | Location Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 24 | 6pm, 7pm, 8pm | Lindenwood Cemetery Entrance | Reservations required |
| Oct 25 | 6pm, 7pm, 8pm | Lindenwood Cemetery Entrance | Free, donations welcome |
| Oct 26 | 6pm, 7pm, 8pm | Lindenwood Cemetery Entrance | Last chance for 2025 |
Check the Fort Wayne Parks website for updates. Call ahead if rain threatens to shift plans.
Tie Into Broader Family History Month Fun
ACPL’s Genealogy Center packs October with free programs. Events range from trivia nights to lectures on ghost armies in World War II.
One highlight is a spooky genealogy trivia at Neon Pear on October 30. Teams compete on family research facts with prizes.
These activities encourage people to dig into their heritage. Tools like online databases make it easy to start at home.
Fort Wayne’s scene ties into national trends for ancestry exploration. Apps and DNA tests boost interest, but local events add personal touch.
Recent studies show more families tracing roots amid global changes. This tour fits perfectly by making history feel close and exciting.
The Haunted Forest Lindenwood Tour stands out as a creative way to honor the past. It reminds us that Fort Wayne’s stories live on in places we pass daily.
Grab your spot today and join the fun. Share your experiences in the comments below and tell friends to register before spots fill up.
