Colonial Dunstable's Sacred Ground: Old Souls of the Old South Cemetery Tour

Step back in time and walk among the earliest settlers of Nashua— patriots, colonial pioneers, and founding families—on the Old Souls of the Old South Cemetery Tour, a living history event presented by the Nashua Historical Society.

Before it was Nashua, this area was known as Old Dunstable, a frontier colonial town chartered in 1673 by the Massachusetts General Court. Today, its oldest burial ground—the Old South Burial Ground, with gravestones dating back to 1687—serves as a powerful link to the region’s colonial and Revolutionary past.

"Nashua’s connections to the American Revolution run deep," says Paula Lochhead, lead organizer of the tour. "This event is one way we are celebrating the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. History isn’t just in books—it’s buried right here. Come stand where the patriots once stood, walk among them, and hear their stories of sacrifice rise from the ground beneath your feet."

Ticketed guests will move from grave to grave, guided by costumed reenactors who will share vivid, true stories of the people who helped shape early New England. Along with the stories of Revolutionary War soldiers’ families, there are French and Indian War veterans, a colonial stonecutter and his apprentice, and more. Nashua Historical Society President Dean Shalhoup will portray Rev. Thomas Weld (1653–1702), Old Dunstable’s first settled minister. Rev. Weld’s leadership helped guide the community through its early years, and his legacy as both a spiritual and civic leader is integral to the history of the region.

Guests will also have the special opportunity to visit the 1841 Suburban Red Brick Schoolhouse No. 1, located on the cemetery grounds and restored in 1976. Inside, a schoolmaster and schoolmarm will recreate the experience of a mid-19th century classroom, offering a unique window into the past.

Event Details:

· Tour: 10 AM – 11:30 AM

· Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled tour

· Ages 10 and up recommended

· Please be aware that walking may be difficult due to uneven terrain; not wheelchair accessible

· Dress for the weather (umbrellas are allowed) and wear sturdy footwear (no pathways)

· Special event t-shirts: $20 (limited supply, cash only) Tickets: Colonial Dunstable's Sacred Ground: Old Souls of the Old South Cemetery Tour | Nashua Historical

· $20 per person · Purchase tickets online: Nashua Historical Society Events (credit card fees apply)

· Or in person at the Florence H. Speare Museum (5 Abbott St, Nashua)

· Limited cash-only tickets may be available at the gate

Parking is available next to the burial ground at Bank of America (across from BJ’s Gas) and the Royal Ridge Mall. Rain Date: In case of severe weather, updates will be posted on our website and Facebook page.

For more information:

(603) 883-0015 Nashua Historical Society’s website: nashuahistoricalsociety.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/events/2137116546777705/