Destination Westport: Art from the Beyond Walking Tour

Ever wondered why stepping on a grave is considered bad luck? Or why so many tombstones are adorned with skulls? Curious about the eerie tales behind Connecticut’s witch trials? 

Join WM Program Associate Alexander Filippides for a spine-tingling Art from the Beyond Walking Tour through the Greens Farms Lower Cemetery, where we’ll uncover the superstitions and mysterious customs from the 18th and 19th centuries surrounding death and burial. Hear the chilling story of Westport’s accused witches, stand before the oldest gravestone in the cemetery, and decode the secret meanings behind urns, willow trees, and other symbols etched on tombstones as you wander through the grounds. 

Meet us at the back entrance of the graveyard on the marked green (park on Nyala Farms Road). Wear comfy shoes and bring some water—this tour covers uneven terrain and could get a bit warm! Please note, this tour is not wheelchair accessible. 

Tickets: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Reservations are a must, so grab your spot online. Tickets are nonrefundable, but if you can’t make it, your purchase will be considered a donation, and we’ll happily provide you with a receipt. 

Space is limited to just 25 people per tour, but don’t worry—if demand is high, we may add more tours. If the tour is sold out or you’re interested in a private tour, shoot us an email at programming@westporthistory.org! 

Westport Museum is accessible via public transit! The Westport-Saugatuck railroad station has connections on the MTA New Haven line from Norwalk, Bridgeport, Stratford, Milford, and New Haven, and more. Uber 2.3 miles to the Museum or take the Norwalk Wheels bus transit system when available to Post Road West at Myrtle Avenue, which is a brief 7-minute walk from the Museum!  

Park on Myrtle Avenue and Avery Place or behind Westport Town Hall or in the Baldwin Parking lot. Westport Museum is a privately funded 501(c)3 museum not affiliated with or managed by Westport Town government. Please support our work by donating here.