The Noah Webster House & West Hartford Historical Society will share real history in a scary setting during the 2024 ‘West Hartford Hauntings’ 20th anniversary tour.

West Hartford Hauntings 2024. Courtesy image

By Ronni Newton

Mrs. Barbara Kalber hasn’t been back to West Hartford for quite some time, but the wife of Henry Kalber, a late 19th Century gravedigger in West Hartford, will return in “body” and in spirit as she leads groups of brave visitors through a lantern-lit tour of the Old North Cemetery, and shares many untold tales and details of the traumas experienced by real life West Hartford residents years ago.

This unique look back at the town’s history has become an October tradition, and this year West Hartford Hauntings will celebrate its 20th anniversary tour. Old North Cemetery, which dates back to c.1790, is one of the oldest burial grounds in the area, and the resting place of many dearly departed residents who are eager for the opportunity to enlighten visitors about the past.

The annual West Hartford Hauntings event is a popular activity for the entire family, but is recommended for ages 10 and up due to the scary content. The theatrical tours are hosted by the Noah Webster House & West Hartford Historical Society and are a fundraiser for the nonprofit organization.

“Old cemeteries are full of stories that connect us with the past and often yield important insight into historical art and. Each year, the Noah Webster House creates storylines for West Hartford Hauntings based on research conducted on the lives – and deaths – of past residents. Old North gravestones, newspaper archives, death notices, wills, and other primary resources can yield pieces of a story culminates in a perfect blend of history and outdoor theater,” the Noah Webster House said in an announcement of the event.

There will be six performance dates of West Hartford Hauntings this year, spread over two weekends, and the event is held rain (or snow) or shine and guests are urged to dress appropriately. Dates are Oct. 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, and 26. Tours depart from Old North Cemetery every 15 minutes between 6 p.m. and 8:45 p.m., and each tour lasts roughly 45 minutes. The 6 p.m. tour on Oct. 19 will include American Sign Language interpretation.

Tickets are $20 for museum members an $25 for the general public, with discounts for groups of 10 or more. The event traditionally sells out. Tickets, which are not refundable, can be purchased online at noahwebster.yapsody.com.

Refreshments and a limited selection of West Hartford Gift Shop and Hauntings-related merchandise will be offered for sale at the site.

Old North Cemetery is located at 80 North Main Street.

Old North Cemetery signage. Photo credit: Ronni Newton