Elmwood Cemetery will host “The Spirit of Elmwood” tour on Saturday, Sept. 12 at 10:30 a.m. These tours are planned to focus on the ‘Spirit’ of Shepherdstown, particularly the people and events which have helped to shape its rich History. Drive into the cemetery and you will be directed to parking. The tour will take place near The Rostrum in the Confederate Cemetery.

This year’s tour will be led by local historian Doug Perks. In recognition of the end of the Sesquicentennial of the Civil War, the title of this year’s tour is “The Confederate Cemetery at Elmwood.” Following the Civil War the Shepherdstown community purchased land for the burial of Confederate soldiers. Perks will discuss the history of the Confederate Cemetery and subsequent memorials which were dedicated and placed on that ground.

A donation of $10 per person is recommended. The Elmwood Cemetery Board of Directors has authorized a Historic Structures Report of The Superintendent’s House, home to the cemetery’s caretaker. The report will be used as a guide to restore The Superintendent’s House. All proceeds from this tour will be applied to the restoration of The Superintendent’s House.

This year the tour will take place in one location near The Rostrum. Feel free to bring along a chair to sit in while you listen. Be sure to wear comfortable clothing and your walking shoes. Gnats are bothersome this time of year, so don’t forget your favorite remedy. In the event of inclement weather, the tour will be canceled.