Hosted every fall, the Friends of Greenlawn Cemetery present The Story of Us, an immersive outdoor play that brings Portsmouth’s rich history to life. Set among the headstones and historic pathways of Greenlawn Cemetery, the production highlights the remarkable individuals who helped shape the region—from civic leaders and educators to veterans, entrepreneurs, artists, and everyday citizens whose stories might otherwise fade with time. The play is a blend of local storytelling, historical reenactment, and outdoor theater, offering the community a chance to step directly into the past.
Established as a nonprofit dedicated to preserving and promoting Greenlawn Cemetery, the Friends organization works year-round to maintain the grounds, conserve historic markers, and share the stories behind them. Greenlawn is one of Portsmouth’s oldest and most meaningful landmarks, dating back to the 1800s, and serves as the final resting place for generations of Scioto County residents. The cemetery reflects Portsmouth’s evolution—from its early river town beginnings and industrial growth to its cultural milestones and moments of resilience. The Story of Us was created to honor this heritage and to inspire deeper community appreciation for the people who came before.
The decision to host the play outdoors—on the grounds where these individuals are buried—is intentional and meaningful. The setting provides an authentic backdrop that no traditional theater can replicate. Walking through the cemetery as scenes unfold allows the audience to connect emotionally and physically with the stories being told. It transforms the cemetery from a quiet place of remembrance into a living classroom, reminding visitors that history is not distant—it is right beneath their feet. The natural stillness of the setting adds to the reflective, reverent tone of the production, while the changing autumn light creates a powerful atmosphere.
Established as a nonprofit dedicated to preserving and promoting Greenlawn Cemetery, the Friends organization works year-round to maintain the grounds, conserve historic markers, and share the stories behind them. Greenlawn is one of Portsmouth’s oldest and most meaningful landmarks, dating back to the 1800s, and serves as the final resting place for generations of Scioto County residents. The cemetery reflects Portsmouth’s evolution—from its early river town beginnings and industrial growth to its cultural milestones and moments of resilience. The Story of Us was created to honor this heritage and to inspire deeper community appreciation for the people who came before.
The decision to host the play outdoors—on the grounds where these individuals are buried—is intentional and meaningful. The setting provides an authentic backdrop that no traditional theater can replicate. Walking through the cemetery as scenes unfold allows the audience to connect emotionally and physically with the stories being told. It transforms the cemetery from a quiet place of remembrance into a living classroom, reminding visitors that history is not distant—it is right beneath their feet. The natural stillness of the setting adds to the reflective, reverent tone of the production, while the changing autumn light creates a powerful atmosphere.
Information on the Friends of Greenlawn Cemetery
Friends of Greenlawn Cemetery Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving, restoring, and enhancing the historic Greenlawn Cemetery in Portsmouth, Ohio. Their mission centers on protecting the cemetery’s monuments, mausoleums, landscapes, and architectural features while making its rich local history accessible to the community. Through restoration projects, cemetery mapping, record digitization, and public programs like the living-history event The Story of Us, the Foundation works to honor the stories of those buried there and maintain Greenlawn as a peaceful, beautiful, and educational historic space for future generations.
Contact Info for Friends of Greenlawn Cemetery:
E-Mail:friendsofgreenlawncemeteryfnd@gmail.com
Address: Friends of Greenlawn Cemetery, PO Box 333, Portsmouth, OH 45662
Website: https://www.friendsofgreenlawncemeteryfoundation.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/friendsofgreenlawncemeteryfoundation
