The Metro Council last week acknowledged volunteers who made a significant and unique contribution to protect the historic and scenic Lone Fir Cemetery from vandalism. During its Dec. 17 Council meeting, Metro Councilors and President David Bragdon commended the group of 72 volunteers worked together to stage the 2009 Tour of Untimely Departures on Halloween night.
During the annual event, volunteer actors play the roles of some of the colorful characters buried at Lone Fir and guide visitors through the cemetery to ensure that they have a safe, but spooky, experience. The community event brings the region’s history to life and serves to deter the devastating vandalism experienced at the cemetery on previous Halloweens. In 2009, more than 2,000 visitors, double the 2008 attendance, enjoyed the tour while learning about this culturally significant site. Friends of Lone Fir Cemetery and Metro coordinated the event.
Founded in 1855, Lone Fir Cemetery is the only Portland cemetery listed on the National Register for Historic Places.