Sponsored by the Granville Union Cemetery Board, Granville’s Old Colony Burying Ground will host a unique living history program this summer, inviting residents to step back in time and hear the stories of local Revolutionary War veterans and their families.
The weathered stones of Granville’s Old Colony Burying Ground stand as silent witnesses to the past — but on Friday, July 3, they will frame a living history event that brings those stories into the present. “Meet the Patriots!” will share the lives of Revolutionary War veterans and their wives. The event is scheduled from 2:00 to 4:30 p.m. at the historic cemetery on South Main Street. A rain date has been set for Sunday, July 5.
Actors in period dress will stand at the headstones of Granville’s Revolutionary War veterans, recounting tales of courage, sacrifice, and resilience. The program also highlights the lives of the veterans’ wives, ensuring that the experiences of families who endured the trials of war are remembered alongside the soldiers themselves. Organizers describe the event as both educational and engaging, designed to appeal to all ages. Children will enjoy special activities and souvenirs, while adults will gain a deeper appreciation for the community’s historical roots.
The Granville Union Cemetery Board is sponsoring the program, with support from six chapters of the Ohio Societies of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) and Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). Their involvement underscores the importance of preserving and sharing these stories for future generations. The Old Colony Burying Ground, established in the early 19th century, provides a fitting backdrop for the event, connecting today’s residents with the town’s earliest families.
The program has also drawn attention on social media, where the Licking County Historical Society promoted the event to its followers.
“Meet the patriots, hear the stories of Granville’s American Revolutionary War veterans and their wives at their headstones,” the post read.
The cemetery itself holds deep historical significance. According to the Daughters of the American Revolution, the Old Colony Burying Ground is among the oldest cemeteries in Ohio. The organization also noted that 18 Revolutionary War veterans, 39 War of 1812 veterans, and 16 Civil War veterans rest there, along with the founders of Granville from the Licking Company. By gathering at this site, the community not only remembers individual lives but also honors the enduring legacy of those who shaped the nation’s beginnings.
