Every fall, as the air turns crisp and the leaves transform into shades of gold and crimson, the serene pathways of Woodlawn Cemetery in Winona come alive with the whispers of history. Established in 1862, Woodlawn is the city’s oldest and most picturesque resting place, a sprawling testament to the generations that have called Winona home. But for one special evening each October, the cemetery becomes more than a place of quiet reflection—it becomes a stage for the Voices From the Past.

A Unique Tradition of Remembrance

The Voices From the Past Cemetery Walk is more than just an event; it’s a heartfelt tribute to the men and women who helped shape the fabric of Winona. Community actors don authentic period clothing each year, stepping into the roles of the city’s most storied residents. Their voices echo through the cemetery, telling tales of resilience, ambition, and legacy. It’s a scene that merges past and present, with actors framed by the rich colors of autumn, breathing life back into the stories of Winona.

This year’s theme, Historic Places, Historic Faces, invited visitors on a journey through the lives of people connected to Winona’s landmarks. As attendees walked through the carefully maintained grounds, they met characters tied to the city’s vibrant history—from a local maid with a hidden secret to a railroad worker who played a crucial role in making Winona a booming hub in the Midwest. These stories told against the backdrop of Woodlawn’s majestic mausoleums and gravestones, painted a vivid picture of the lives that built Winona from the ground up.

Connecting with the Past

One of the most moving aspects of the Voices From the Past is its ability to forge connections between performers and the people they embody. Some actors have even encountered relatives of those they’re portraying. This year, an actress who played a local woman named Bula recounted how two of Bula’s relatives approached her, eyes brimming with emotion. “You’re portraying my aunt Bula,” they said, asking for a photo. It was a moment that underscored the living nature of history—how it continues to touch us in the most unexpected ways.

The event isn’t just about storytelling; it’s a community effort to honor those who came before and to ensure their stories are preserved. Proceeds from the walk support the Winona County History Center, funding ongoing efforts to maintain local history for generations to come. For participants and spectators alike, this act of preservation is as vital as the stories themselves.

A Walk Through Time

Walking the paths of Woodlawn Cemetery during the event is an experience that stays with you long after the night ends. The grounds are meticulously kept, a tribute to the dignity of those resting there. With ten grand mausoleums and countless headstones, the cemetery is a canvas of historical architecture, each site echoing with its own tale.

Visitors are transported back in time as the tour wends its way from one performance to the next. This year’s journey included stories tied to once-celebrated local spots like the grand Winona Opera House and the beloved but now-vanished Garden Gate Tea Room. The performers, dressed in intricate period garb, stood against the backdrop of towering trees and gently falling leaves, creating a haunting and beautiful scene. It’s this mix of history, art, and natural beauty that makes Voices From the Past more than an event—it’s an experience that immerses you in the soul of Winona.

Honoring Those Who Came Before

Winona’s history is full of stories about visionaries, educators, entrepreneurs, and everyday heroes. Many of the city’s wealthiest and most influential families rest within Woodlawn’s hallowed grounds, their mausoleums standing as silent testaments to their impact. But the event also celebrates the lesser-known figures whose contributions were just as meaningful. These diverse voices—some well-known, others more obscure—make Voices From the Past such a rich and layered tradition.

One of the performers summed it up perfectly: “It’s the most important, we agree, to honor the voices of the past and get the essence of this person who once contributed so much to Winona.” And it’s true—each story told, each character brought to life, is a reminder that the past is never far away. It lives in the names on gravestones, the stories passed down through generations, and the hearts of those who choose to remember.

A Community Tradition Worth Experiencing

Whether you’re a history buff or just someone looking for a unique way to spend an October evening, the Voices From the Past Cemetery Walk offers something special. It’s a chance to slow down, wander through the golden leaves, and hear the stories of those who helped shape Winona. Even if you missed this year’s event, the spirit of the Voices From the Past lingers. Take a peaceful stroll through Woodlawn Cemetery on your own time and imagine the voices that once filled the town—the pioneers, the dreamers, and the doers who carved out a life in Winona.

Mark your calendar for next October and join the community for another journey into the stories that make Winona the vibrant town it is today. Until then, remember to cherish and honor the voices of the past that guide us through the present and into the future.

Learn More and Plan Your Visit

For more information about the Voices From the Past Cemetery Walk and future events, visit the event page on Explore Minnesota. To learn more about the work and initiatives of the Winona County Historical Society, visit their official website at Winona Historical Society.

These resources will help you stay connected to Winona’s rich history and plan your next visit to experience the stories that shaped this incredible community.