On Sundays, June 4, August 6, and October 1, at 2:15 p.m., visitors may join the Guided Walks in Historic Oakdale Cemetery. Participants will gather at the octagonal building in the Cemetery, located on U.S. 64 at Valley St. Cost is $10 per person 10 years and older. Children under 10 are free with a paid adult.
“The famous angel described in Thomas Wolfe’s book is the main attraction at Oakdale Cemetery,” Padgett said. “But grave markers can tell interesting stories and whisper secrets … so come along to discover Hendersonville’s buried past.”
Groups of eight or more are invited to make arrangements for a convenient private tour time throughout the summer and fall for Guided Walks on Main Street or in Oakdale Cemetery.
“Locals and visitors may join me to celebrate and share the interesting history and architecture of downtown Hendersonville,” Padgett said. “And on certain Sunday afternoons, I’ll be at Oakdale Cemetery to share some stories. I believe that knowing our history enriches our lives.”

Group tours of eight or more people can be scheduled anytime throughout the summer and fall season. The tours are conducted under the auspices of The Trolley Company, which conducts history, wine, and apple orchard tours around Henderson County.
Padgett served on Hendersonville City Council for eight years, is a journalist and public relations consultant, co-founder and former executive director of ECO, was associate editor at The Mother Earth News magazine, and conducts programs and guided tours in Paris, France, on the American Revolution. Her parents spent their honeymoon in the Skyland Hotel on Main Street. She grew up on a farm in Rutherford County, and has lived in a 100-year-old house in downtown Hendersonville for 34 years.
To make reservations or for more information, phone Padgett at 828-545-3179 or email maryjo@maryjopadgett.com. Visit www.maryjopadgett.com and click on Guided Walks for a complete schedule.