Nothing gives a grave tale of the history of Port Macquarie quite like an afternoon walk among the tombstones, according to local heritage consultant Mitch McKay.
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Intriguing stories of free settlers, military men and convicts are set to be shared during a number of Grave Tales Walking Tours from April 24 to 27 at the Port Macquarie Historic Cemetery.
The site stands an ominous guard at the end of Horton Street and Gordon Street, next to Kooloonbung Creek Nature Park.
While not the oldest burial place in town, the historic cemetery is considered the most significant with nearly 1500 occupants and 102 visible graves.
There's no better way to learn about Port Macquarie's convict period in the 1820's said Mr McKay.
"Free settlers, military and convicts are buried here and on the tours I talk about why it's here, its layout and a number of significant Australians," he said.
"John Verge, the architect is buried here, police magistrate major James Henry Crummer, Innes family members but also children, aged nine hours or four months.
"There are heart warming stories and when it was built it was considered the outskirts of town, how times change."
Another interesting feature of the cemetery is the resting place of Jean Charles Lamonnerie dit Fattorini, buried in 1853 who was alleged to be an illegitimate son of Napoleon Bonaparte.
Trees such as Camphor laurels, Cypress, Norfolk Island Pines, Pinus radiata and small figs dot the raised mound with more recent plantings including maple, birdsnest ferns and loquat.
Some raising determinedly through soil and sandstone of occupied resting places.
When asked about any supernatural occurrences at the cemetery, Mr McKay said he only presents the history but has heard of public sightings.
"We have had people who do not want to go to certain sections," he said.
"Some people do feel things but I don't, I talk about what I know."
Tours commence from 2pm to 3.30pm and can be booked through the Port Macquarie Hastings Heritage at: mitch@pmheritage.com.au
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