Morris County Tourism Bureau Once More Hosting Fall Walking Tours

As the air becomes crisp and fall begins, why not explore Morristown by foot?

During October, the Morris County Tourism Bureau hosts its Fall Historical Walking Tour Series, titled "Hauntings and Hikes," offering three tours that reflect the spirit of the season.

On Oct. 9, Al MacLennan, a professional hiking guide, will lead participants in "Historic Hike," a 90-minute jaunt from the Morris County Courthouse to Fort Nonsense. The hike includes a visit to the site of the remains of Morristown's first water system.

For those looking for a more macabre outing, docent David Breslauer's "Remains to Be Seen" is a lantern tour that visits Morristown's historic district and the graveyard of St. Peter's Episcopal Church. Breslauer, the former director of Macculloch Hall Historical Museum, will share the stories of some of Morristown's most prominent residents, such as Alfred Vail and George Macculloch, who are buried in the church's graveyard. The Oct. 16 tour is already sold out, but spots are still available for the Oct. 30 session.

The graveyard theme continues with "Real Bones, Old Stones: The Presbyterian Graveyard," during which church elder and long time tourism bureau docent Scott Shepherd will discuss the long and storied history of the graveyard at Morristown's Presbyterian Church. Its cemetery is home to both members of Morristown's elite and Revolutionary War soldiers, who were buried in unmarked graves.

"Scott is probably the world's most knowledgeable person when it comes to the people buried there," Morris County Tourism Bureau Program Coordinator and docent Carol Barkin said.

Barkin also suggested signing up early for tours, which cost $10 per person. "We've had them for about 13 years, and they've gotten quite popular," she said. "We had to start asking people to make reservations."

To reserve a spot on any of the fall walking tours, call the Morris County Tourism Bureau at 973-631-5151.