EVENT: Eastern Cemetery, Saturday

From the latest issue of the West End News:

Tour & Trim Eastern Cemetery

Join our enthusiastic group of Master Gardeners, history buffs, friends and neighbors at the historic Easter Cemetery, Saturday, August 26th at 9:00am for a new event, Tour and Trim!

We are combingin two activities: a tour of this incredible "museums without walls" AND, light prining as we tour! Sounds like fun?

This ancient public burial site, Portland's oldest, was founded in 1668, and was added to and subtracted from during its long 338 year history. Comprising over 6 acres, it holds the interments of over 8000 of Portland's earliest settlers, preachers, longshoremen, farmers, criminals, and politicians. Today, about 4000 stones and markers remain. It is the very nature of this historic site that makes planting and maintenance a challenge.

Join us and bring your hand-pruners, gloves, lopping shears (if you have them), a water bottle and hat.

We'll visit the oldest site in the current cemetery, a few of the many military heroes, the Longfellow family, and perhaps Portland's first bank robber. In between, we will prune invasive vines and shrubs and trim around some of the most delicate stones.

All are welcomed to participate. The event takes place rain or shine. Acquaint yourself with one of Portland's incredible treasures. Gates are now unlocked daily! For more information, please contact Christina White at Spirits Alive, email christina(AT)simonewear.com or via phone at 846-7753.

And when these guys say "rain or shine" they really mean it!