Walnut Hill Choral Society

The Walnut Hill Choral Society of Living History Farms is a volunteer chorus dedicated to preserving the choral music traditions of the early- to mid- 19th century.

This volunteer group sings a cappella arrangements of nineteenth century sentimental, patriotic, and religious songs, specializing in popular music printed from 1850 through 1875. Our goal is to recreate one of the many community singing societies and glee clubs found in rural Midwestern towns during the Victorian era. Dressed in 1870s period clothing, the group performs throughout the year at interpretive events in the recreated 1875 farm town of Walnut Hill at Living History Farms and at various community venues.

Performances include:

May 1 – Opening Day
     3:00-4:00 Strolling and singing through the town of Walnut Hill

May 31 - Decoration Day
      8:00 a.m.    Woodland Cemetery (M.L. King Parkway and Woodland Avenue)
                            A Decoration Day ceremony with readings and song honoring the Civil War dead

      12:00            Church of the Land, Living History Farms
                            Decoration Day/Patriotic concert

June 12 – Victorian Funeral
      11:30-12:30  Church of the Land, Living History Farms
                             Join the Choral Society for a rehearsal of Victorian funeral music

      1:00               Follow the funeral procession from the Tangen House to the cemetery in Walnut Hill for
                             a graveside ceremony with readings and song
 
July 4 – Independence Day
      12:30            Church of the Land, Living History Farms
                            Concert of patriotic and popular 19th Century songs