Shadows, Secrets, and Sin: The Dark Side of Thornrose

Staunton’s historic Thornrose Cemetery will be the site for the Augusta CountyHistorical Society’s newest program, “Shadows, Secrets, and Sin.” October 3, 10, 17, 24, 2026 Saturdays at 4 and 5 p.m. ACHS and Thornrose Cemetery Company invite you to join us as we visit the graves of a unique group of individuals whom few people know about today but whose stories of tragedy, violence, and murder filled newspapers, courtrooms, police reports, and eyewitness accounts throughout Staunton’s early history. Guided evening tours will offer an extraordinary glimpse into why truth is stranger than fiction – and in Thornrose, a cemetery that has never been haunted, the real stories of some buried there that are far more grotesque and grislier than any ghost story could ever be. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the dark side of Thornrose that lies just below the surface. Due to the subject content of this program, it is not recommended for anyone under the age of 18. Tours last approximately an hour and take place regardless of the weather. Wear appropriate clothing and sturdy walking shoes. Tickets are $20 per person and are required. Beginning August 15, tickets can be purchased online at https://ww.augustacountyhs.org/shadows-secrets-and-sin. If you have questions, please call ACHS at 540-248-4151 or e- mail us at adminachs@augustacountyhs.org.