KING OF PRUSSIA, PA — History will come alive after dark on Friday, October 30 when Washington Memorial Heritage, in partnership with the King of Prussia Historical Society, present its annual “Grave Tales at Valley Forge” cemetery tour, beginning at 5:00 PM (additional departure times available) at Washington Memorial Cemetery, located on the campus of Washington Memorial Chapel.
Tickets are available now at https://www.wmheritage.org/events.
Just in time for All Hallow’s Eve, this unique evening experience invites visitors to explore one of the region’s historic cemeteries by flashlight, guided by knowledgeable docents, some dressed in period clothing. Along the way, guests will discover remarkable stories of courage, tragedy, compassion, and achievement that bring the past vividly into the present.
Among the fascinating individuals whose stories will be shared is Louis J. Nacke II, one of the courageous passengers aboard United Airlines Flight 93 on September 11, 2001, whose actions along with those of his fellow passengers and crew, helped prevent the hijacked plane from reaching its intended target.
Visitors will also learn about Alexandra “Alex” Scott, the remarkable young girl whose simple lemonade stand grew into a national movement for childhood cancer research. Although she lived only eight years, her legacy continues through Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation.
Other stops along the tour will introduce visitors to a survivor of the Titanic, artists, historical figures, community heroes, and everyday individuals whose lives tell compelling stories of the people and events that shaped our communities and our nation.
“Every gravestone represents a life, and every life has a story worth remembering,” said Pat Nogar, executive director of Washington Memorial Heritage. “What makes this tour so special is the opportunity to connect with history on a deeply personal level. These are not simply names and dates carved in stone. They are stories of human experience – of bravery, kindness, sacrifice, and lives that continue to inspire us today.”
Attendees will also be treated to hot cider and cookies after the tour.
“Grave Tales at Valley Forge” is part of Washington Memorial Heritage’s ongoing commitment to preserving and sharing the stories that make Washington Memorial at Valley Forge a living connection between America’s past and future. Because at Valley Forge, history isn’t over. Its stories are still being told.
EVENT SPONSORS
“Grave Tales at Valley Forge” is made possible through the generous support of Bates Landscaping, lead sponsor, and H.C. Wood Monument, Inc. and Main Line Tonight, supporting sponsors.
Washington Memorial Heritage is grateful for their partnership in helping bring these remarkable stories to life.
EVENT DETAILS
- Event: “Grave Tales at Valley Forge” – An Evening Where History Becomes Personal
- Date: Friday, October 30, 2026 (Rain Date: 11/06/26)
- Time: Tours begin at 5:00 PM, with additional departure times available
- Location: Washington Memorial Cemetery, Washington Memorial at Valley Forge, 2000 Valley Forge Park Road, King of Prussia, PA 19406
- Admission: $15 per adult; $5 for children 12 and under. Tickets can be purchased at https://www.wmheritage.org/events
- Refreshments: Hot cider and cookies will be served.
ABOUT WASHINGTON MEMORIAL HERITAGE
Washington Memoria Heritage is a 501 (c) (3) organization dedicated to the preservation, education, and promotion of the historic campus of Washington Memorial at Valley Forge. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the campus encompasses Washington Memorial Chapel, the Porch of the Allies, The National Bell Tower, The Cloister of the Colonies, Defender’s Gate, Washington Memorial Cemetery, and numerous other historic structures, monuments and works of art.
Through preservation initiatives, educational programming, and community engagement, Heritage works to ensure that the stories and ideals embodied in this extraordinary place continue to inspire future generations.
For more information, visit https://www.wmheritage.org.
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