Walk Through 250 Years of American History!
This year’s Lakeside Cemetery Tour celebrates the 250th birthday of the United States with an unforgettable journey through the people, events, and industries that shaped our nation—and our own community.
History comes alive as you visit gravesites throughout Lakeside Cemetery and hear the remarkable stories of prominent local figures. Discover how their courage, ingenuity, service, and determination helped transform a frontier settlement into the community we know today.
The Late 1700s: A Community Takes Root
- The Great Lakes fur trade
- The area’s earliest settlers
The 1800s: Growth, Conflict, and Innovation
- Fort Gratiot
- The War of 1812
- The lumber boom
- The Civil War
- Port Huron’s shipbuilding industry
- The city’s rise as a major railroad hub
- The Grand Trunk Railway Tunnel
- The evolution of local streetcars
The 1900s: A Changing Community
- Immigration and community growth
- The expansion of local manufacturing
- The Factory Land Company
- Leisure and recreation
- The rise of local radio
- Prohibition
- World War II and its impact on the area
- The Port Huron Foundation
Along the way, we’ll also explore the history of Port Huron’s cemeteries and uncover the hidden meanings behind the carvings, symbols, and designs found on historic headstones.
Put on your best walking shoes and come walk among the stories beneath the stones and experience 250 years of American history through the people and places that helped shape St. Clair County.
Tour begins at the chapel.
This is an outdoor event so come dressed for the weather. Rain date is Sunday, September 27, 2026 at 11am.