Columbuses beloved tradition returns on Friday, Nov. 1, when the Old City Cemetery once again plays host for the Live Oaks and Dead Folks Cemetery Tour.
Now in its 22nd year, the evening event will showcase the colorful stories of Columbuses past—featuring everyone from the town’s most noble figures to the gritty and heroic.
For first-time visitors, this isn’t your typical history lesson. A lantern-carrying guide in period costume will lead the way among the headstones, pausing at select graves where the lives of the “dearly departed” are brought back through carefully researched storytelling. Each year new characters are introduced, and this season promises another round of discoveries that highlight Columbuses unique place in Texas history.
“Every fall we uncover remarkable stories hidden in plain sight,” explained Tracey Wegenhoft, president of the Nesbitt Memorial Library Foundation (NMLF) and content contributor. “We have real heroes buried among us. Columbus was at the very heart of the glory years of the Texas Republic and we want to share that heritage with everybody. It’s right under our feet!”
Tickets are $25 each and can be purchased in person at the Nesbitt Memorial Library or online at Live Oaks and Dead Folks 2025 by Nesbitt Memorial Library Foundation. Space is limited, and advance purchase is strongly recommended. All proceeds go to support the ongoing work of the Nesbitt Memorial Library Foundation.
A rrival time is 6:15 p.m. with the tour kicking off at 6:30 p.m. Sturdy walking shoes are advised because the cemetery may look ethereal by lantern light, but the sticker burs are a down-toearth reality! Everyone is welcome to experience one of Columbuses most memorable events and learn a little history at the same time.
