— What started as a way to learn additional local history has turned into full-blown performance art for the students at the Sadler Arts Academy. Students in the seventh  and eighth grades will portray early Muskogee pioneers Saturday for the Three Rivers Museum’s Historic Cemetery Walking Tour.

Georgie Chapuis, a teacher at Sadler, said her kids have been going from page to page on the Internet, researching how and when famous Muskogee residents died.

“The kids did this last year, and they had a blast,” she said. “On their trip to Washington, D.C., they decided they wanted to do it again. They really enjoyed dressing up and dramatizing Muskogee history.”

Part of the proceeds will help fund the Sadler field trip, a six-day bus tour across the state. The trip, dubbed “Celebrating Oklahoma: One Mile at a Time,” will provide knowledge of the landscapes and the unique history of the state.

Sue Tolbert, the director of Three Rivers Museum, said people really enjoy seeing history interpreted by the youth of Muskogee.

“They really get into what they are doing,” she said. “Most of them will be taking on a role, but some will be telling you about a certain person. They really get into what they are doing.”

The tours will start and finish at the Three Rivers Museum, 220 Elgin St. Attendees will board a trolley to historic Greenhill Cemetery, then take a leisurely walk through the cemetery led by a guide, all while enjoying the acting talents of the Sadler Academy youth.

Tolbert said that although the trail is not difficult, she wouldn’t recommend it for anyone who has trouble walking.

“The entire trip will take about an hour and a half,” she said. “We also don’t recommend it for young children. Also, people need to make sure they come to the museum first, as we won’t be taking payments at the cemetery.”

Trolleys will leave the museum every 30 to 45 minutes from 10:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. Tickets cost $15 per person except museum members, who will pay $13.

Chapuis said that although part of this is a chance to learn more about Muskogee’s rich pioneer history; another part of it is the opportunity to give back to the community.

“We appreciate the Three Rivers Museum for not only the opportunity, but also for their involvement,” she said.

“The kids have all been talking about their characters and getting excited. I’m excited, too.”

If you go



WHAT: Three Rivers Museum’s Historic Cemetery Walking Tour.

WHEN: 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.

WHERE: Depart from Three Rivers Museum. Walking Tour at Greenhill Cemetery

COST: $15 per person/$13 for museum members

INFORMATION: (918) 686-6624 or www.3riversmuseum.com.