Each year, the Historic All Hallow’s Eve Tours take place on Halloween. This candlelit guided walking tour covers the history of Blandford Cemetery and features stories of some of the permanent residents portrayed by costumed interpreters (who pop out unexpectedly from behind gravestones!). Each tour highlights prominent businessmen, soldiers and civilians, as well as tales of an unrequited love and of a friendship with Edgar Allen Poe.
Old Blandford Church was built in 1735 in a parish founded by Peter Jefferson (Thomas’ father!), and is one of only 6 churches in the U.S. with a full set of 15 Tiffany windows. During the siege of Petersburg it was used as a Confederate hospital, and in 1901 it became a Confederate memorial to the 30,000 soldiers buried there in the 189 acres of cemetery. Each Confederate state donated money for one of the windows representing the 12 apostles, which were personally and magnificently designed and installed by Louis Comfort Tiffany; he handcrafted the one of St. Peter himself.
Blandford Church Reception Center
111 Rochelle Lane, Petersburg, VA.
VA Exit 50B Petersburg
There is no vehicle parking allowed at the site for this night. Event parking will be available at the gravel lot east of the Farmer’s Market, next to the McIlwaine House (corner of Cockade Alley and Old Street). A shuttle bus drives you to the cemetery, and you are encouraged to bring a flashlight and wear walking shoes.
804-733-2396.
Oct 31 only.
http://www.petersburg-va.org/tourism/blandford.htm