I hope that everyone has set aside time for the rededication of Old Village Cemetery. It will commence immediately after the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars parade and memorial service on Main Street.
The rededication will feature the 5th Michigan Regiment Band. This Civil War style band with color guard will lead the community into the cemetery via the new DDA walkway adjacent to Saint Pauls Episcopal Church. Construction begins in April and will be visible along the top terrace above the gazebo.
During the rededication, you will hear the 5th Michigan Band play vintage music from the 1860s period. The ceremony will feature history about the cemetery. Information will be shared about lives of the community members interred there including the first burial in 1837. Learn about John McKinnie, a run-away slave, who made his home in Brighton. Did you know Michigans first Republican governor, and US Senator, Kinsley Bingham maintained a farm in nearby Green Oak Township?
Following the ceremony, you can experience a personal tour of eight gravesites. Actors from the Livingston Players will present the lives and experiences of local towns people as they stand in front of their headstones in period dress. The beauty of the Old Village Cemetery will be yours to experience as you walk under the canopy of mature trees enjoying the tunes of the Civil War Band.
The Brighton Area Historical Society is proud to share in the celebration of the 130th Anniversary of Saint Pauls Church. Please join us for cake and refreshments. Visit the churchs community center following your tour of Old Village Cemetery to see historical memorabilia.
Jim Vichich