On July 24, over 50 residents and visitors strolled past the Pentwater Township Cemetery graves of more than 60 notables and less well-known people who helped shape Pentwater's rich history. Attendees heard examples of heroism, bravery, defending equality, respect, humor, service to the country and tragedy.
"I was delighted by the large turnout for this one-time program sponsored by Friends of the Pentwater Township Cemetery," said Pentwater Historical Society (PHS) docent Ron Beeber, who led the stroll. He shared information gathered over the past several years from PHS newsletters and museum exhibits and other sources.
"The group was as large as I could comfortably guide," added Beeber. "During Covid, I began strolling the grounds for exercise and still try to walk my route weekly. I'm sometimes joined by others and always enjoy the company. Pentwater Township government recently wrote to its taxpayers: 'We invite everyone to visit and explore the (cemetery) grounds to appreciate its unique beauty and serene atmosphere.' This is my way of generating interest."
Beeber will also present a 75-minute "Virtual Stroll Through the Pentwater Township Cemetery" slide presentation at the Pentwater District Library, 402 E. Park St., Pentwater, on Aug. 11 at 1:30 p.m. and Aug. 12 at 10:30 a.m.
"Not everyone can walk for an hour or more through our hilly cemetery, so I put my material into slides containing accompanying photos," Beeber said. "Someone once posted on Facebook that a cemetery is more than a burial ground. It's a record of a community's history. I agree! I'll very briefly touch on about 60 gravesites, which might stir memories that audience members can briefly share as time permits. My PowerPoint slides are on a thumb drive, and I'm happy to present this to clubs, church groups, students and gatherings of families/friends as long as they have the right audio/visual equipment. I can adjust the running time as is necessary."
