Herb Williams portraying his ancestor Ezekiel Williams, will greet people at the Union-Williams Cemetery tour.

Cemetery Walk

Every year during the first weekend in October the Cole Camp Museum sponsors a Cemetery Walk at the historic Union-Williams Cemetery, which is two miles west of Cole Camp on Highway F. This cemetery shares the land with the Union-Williams Church that was originally a log structure built in the 1840s. The land was purchased from Ezekiel Williams, the first white settler in Benton County. The present building was erected in 1904 and remains without electricity thereby preserving the character and atmosphere of the old church.

The cemetery is the final resting place of many of the early settlers of the Cole Camp area and persons important in building the community. Ezekiel Williams is buried there along with those early pioneers. Local residents will portray colorful characters that are buried in the Cemetery and their role in the community. All are in period costume giving the event a true air of authenticity. It is a wonderful trip back in time and an education in the history of a small, rural community.

While the tours are being conducted and visiting the historic gravesites, inside the church period music is performed, to include church and gospel music. The church is lit by kerosene lanterns as it would have been 100 years ago adding to the charm and authenticity of the church. Refreshments are also offered.

For further information check the "Community Calendar" link or contact: Darlene Anderson 660-668-3611 or e-mail tymepast@iland.net