DARLINGTON — The Lafayette County Historical and Genealogy Society plan to continue holding “Cemetery Drive Thru and Walks” at cemeteries all over the county. The most recent was Saturday, June 3 at Union Grove Cemetery of Darlington. 

A team of a dozen participants researched interesting families buried there, selected characters to portray and assembled costumes of the various time periods. Roughly 30 visitors were provided a map and offered cold water, lemonade, cake and bars in the shade of the Kline Memorial Chapel portico before beginning their visits with the historical characters. There were early pioneers, Civil War veterans, their family members, a politician and his mother, and a circus owner turned banker. Surnames included Parson, Wilkenson, Daugherty, Martin, Jenks, Beers, Reed, Doty, and Rose.

The weather was warm, but a refreshing breeze and shade kept all comfortable.  

The Society wishes to thank all who participated: the visitors that spent part of their afternoon at the cemetery, and the Union Grove Cemetery Association (UGCA) that worked with the society on the event. Two UGCA board members portrayed “residents” of the cemetery.

The Kline Memorial Chapel was built in 1920 by Louis W. Kline and was used for memorial services, and “burial” when a winter death prevented digging the grave. The deceased were “laid to rest” by being lowered from the chapel to the vault below (through an opening in the floor) where the coffin could be stored in one of 20 lockers until weather permitted final burial. 

The beautiful building with complex roof design has been maintained and repaired by the Cemetery Association with help from generous donors. The window glass is original and the interior is light and pleasant, with a stunning chandelier, and wood/coal stove for winter comfort. It sustained some minor water damage which is currently being repaired. The interior of the chapel was not used for the event, being under repair, but everyone who had the opportunity to view the interior was fascinated by the history of its use and awed by the charming space.

For information on future “Cemetery Walks” or “Drive Thru” events, requests, or suggestions, contact the society at 608-776-8340; “like” their Facebook Page: Lafayette County Historical and Genealogy Society; or visit 

lafayettecohistoricaland

genealogy.com. The best way to be informed is to join the society and receive their quarterly newsletter.

Calling all Crafters

The Lafayette County Historical and Genealogy Society is presenting “Night (and Day) at the Museum 2023” this Sept. 15-17. As like last year, Saturday will feature a Craft Fair in Veterans Park on the West side of Main Street starting at 9 a.m. The date, Sept. 16, is a week earlier than last year, to avoid conflicts with other area large events.  

The history celebration will be primarily on the east side of Main Street, and will include historical encampments, several food vendors (including Optimists Club Cheese Curds), a quilting bee, hands on activities, demonstrations of pioneer skills, and shooting of a variety of armaments. The theme of Lafayette County history does not apply to the Craft Fair which can include any type of craft or art.  

The Saturday Farmers Market will also be in Veterans Park on Saturday, Sept. 16 to make for complete, food, festival and shopping experience. There is no charge for a space (which is on first come first served basis). Vendors can set up on Friday if they wish. It’s worth noting that the event will be every other year going forward — so not again until 2025. 

For more information, contact the Historical and Genealogy Society at 608-776-8340.