Forest Cemetery comes alive
Dave Eubanks, wearing a derby hat, talks about Coeur d'Alene's history during a tour of Forest Cemetery with about 20 people on a Friday evening in 2023.
BILL BULEY/Press file
History will come to life this fall as the Museum of North Idaho presents "Forest Cemetery Comes Alive," a walking tour that invites guests to step back in time and meet some of Coeur d’Alene’s most fascinating historical figures.
But if you want to go, Saturday is your last chance, as about 20 tours, including some at St. Thomas Cemetery, have already sold out.
"People love cemetery tours," said Britt Thurman, executive director of the Museum of North Idaho.
Visitors will walk through Forest Cemetery, where actors portraying early settlers, community leaders and colorful characters from the region’s past will share their stories in first-person narrative. The immersive experience blends history, theater and a sense of place — making the cemetery itself a stage for remembering those who helped shape North Idaho.
“This event is a unique way to connect with our local history,” Thurman said. “Instead of reading names on headstones, you’ll hear the voices and stories of the people who lived, worked and built the community we know today.”
This is the fifth season of MNI's cemetery tours, and they have proven popular, as even summer tours sold out.
Guests can expect to meet figures such as Frederick Blackwell, Ed Pulaski, Gladys and Herb Buroker, Patty Duke and more, each brought to life through dramatic interpretation.
Saturday's tour is scheduled 5 to 9 p.m. Tickets are $30 online or $35 at the door.
Forest Cemetery Comes Alive is made possible through community partnership with the city of Coeur d’Alene.
Tickets can be reserved in advance at museumni.org/cemeterytours.com.