The focus throughout much of 2018 has been the observance of the 100th anniversary of the end of World War I. To pay tribute to the men and women who gave so much during the “war to end all wars,” this year’s cemetery tour, hosted by the Merchants and Drovers Tavern Museum Association, will feature a World War I theme. The tour, the Association’s 24th annual, will be held on Sunday, October 7, 2018 in the historic Rahway Cemetery.
Guests will be escorted to eleven graves of citizens who have interesting and in some cases tragic stories to tell. Costumed actors will represent both soldiers and civilians as they give the historic accounts of the parts they played in the war.
Tour stops will include the graves of two soldiers who were killed in action, the mausoleum of Dr. Fred Albee, the famous orthopedic surgeon, and a 15 year old girl who worked as a Red Cross Volunteer. Descriptions of some of the brutal battles will be given by soldiers who were there, two of whom received the Purple Heart and came home with life-altering injuries. Visitors will also learn about the USA Coast Artillery Corps, the Army Air Force, and the Balloon Squadron. Visitors will hear the unusual story of a decorated soldier, who after the war, murdered his girlfriend and was executed in the electric chair.
Tours start at noon and leave every 15 minutes with each tour taking approximately 1 1/2 hours. The last tour goes out at 4:00 p.m. Since large crowds are anticipated, tour time reservations are recommended to ensure a desired starting time. Admission is $15.00 for adults, $10.00 for seniors (65+), and $5.00 for children (12 and under). For reservations and more information, call the Museum office at (732) 381-0441.
