The Antietam Historical Association's Summer Solstice Observance shared new perspectives on the rhythms of life
By Robb Helfrick
The Antietam Historical Association hosted its annual Summer Solstice Observance on Sunday, June 21. Ushering in a new season on a date with both astronomical and paternal significance, the day marked the first day of summer and Father’s Day, bringing fond memories of Dad’s past and present.
The setting for AHA’s unique affair was the lovely grounds of Green Hill Cemetery. The resting place dates back to 1873, when it became Waynesboro’s first garden cemetery. Now containing 65 gently sloped acres and over 17,000 interments, the cemetery honors and memorializes many of Waynesboro’s notable past citizens. Green Hill is now considered one of the finest cemeteries in the region. The combination of AHA and Green Hill Cemetery as the sponsor and host of the solstice event made it a fitting observance of the spring-to-summer transition and brought new perspectives on the rhythms of life.
The cemetery celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2023, and that is when its solstice observance began. The origin of the word solstice comes from a Latin term, which means when the “sun stands still.” Since ancient times, cultures have celebrated the summer solstice. Many civilizations built monuments that aligned with the sunrise or sunset on this June day, such as Stonehenge in England. They also recognized the spiritual qualities of energy and prosperity that the day represents.
The summer solstice is a time to connect with nature through mindful meditation and by focusing on the bounty of the growing season. Green Hill is a wise choice for such an outdoor celebration, as it is home to an abundance of trees. The cemetery became an arboretum in May 2026, only the third accredited “tree museum” in Franklin County.
Back in the Victorian era, it was customary for some American families to organize Sunday picnics in garden cemeteries near the plots of loved ones. AHA’s solstice observance at Green Hill mimics that tradition. The event not only entertains guests in a tasteful style but also educates them about the property’s history and culture.
For AHA’s outdoor event, the organizing committee always crosses its fingers when it ponders the day’s forecast. This year, Mother Nature couldn’t have been kinder. “The weather was perfect,” AHA Executive Director Todd Dorsett said, “and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves.”
The celebration was centered under a tent canopy, set up with communal round tables that offered Green Hill’s signature vistas in every direction. Ritchie Warner is a cemetery Board Member and has championed the solstice event, serving as its Master of Ceremonies. “Green Hill provides such a beautiful setting with the trees, manicured lawn, and the view of the mountains,” Warner said.
Hors d’oeuvres and cocktails were served, which paired perfectly with the night’s musical performance by Reckless Mo and the Backseat Drivers. “The blend of acoustic guitars and harmonizing vocals was fantastic,” Warner said.
However, Warner noted that the band’s appearance was bittersweet. The group had played the previous solstice events with musician Frank Davis, but the Waynesboro native passed away in May. Davis enjoyed performing in the cemetery and had taken his bandmates to visit his departed family members who rested there. This year, his fellow musicians played on, honoring Frank’s memory. They reminded everyone who attended that life continues onward after loved ones have gone to another realm.
To anyone who hasn’t experienced AHA’s Solstice Observance, it might seem quirky to hold such a gathering in a cemetery. However, many of the event’s attendees have family or friends who are buried at Green Hill. The resulting familiarity and fondness for this park-like property add a unique quality to this yearly gathering.
Guests strolled between the tent and the band, stopping often to talk with an old friend or to meet a new acquaintance. A large tree offered shade, which wasn’t a necessity on this comfortable evening, but its dangling leaves provided a pleasing frame for the western sky.
Lucky solstice ticket holders won door prizes- books from AHA’s portfolio- which included its recent volume on the late Waynesboro photographer Sylvester Snyder. The cemetery provided guests with brochures for a self-guided tour.
When the sun kissed the horizon on the first evening of summer, solstice attendees said their goodbyes. The miniature twinkle of fireflies appeared among the trees. Then, the cemetery returned to its everyday atmosphere after the last guest departed, quietly marking the next chapter in its 153-year existence. Consistent through all seasons, Green Hill’s serene landscape offers peace and reflection for the living, and a quiet home to souls who will never be forgotten.
