Haunted Harris-Kemper tours provide more than a ghostly historic lesson

Sep. 3—The arrival of the eerie season will bring the Haunted Harris-Kemper walking tours, set to kick off on Oct. 12.

These tours not only offer locals a chance to delve into the rich history of Harris-Kemper but also support a range of community projects aimed at enhancing the city's charm. One of these places of charm includes the butterfly garden on the corner of 18th and Faraon streets.

"We acquired the garden in 2015. After much deliberation and trying to figure out what we can do with an empty lot, we settled on making a butterfly waystation for monarchs," said Wickie Utley, current secretary for the Harris-Kemper Association.

Utley said that with a recent grant through the city, a new sprinkling system will be added as well as new plants and a sculpture by Jacob Burmood, who has made other sculptures in St. Joseph.

"We are fortunate enough that the sculpture also lives in Harris-Kemper, and he's an exceptionally wonderful artist," said Cyndee Dvorak, Harris-Kemper Association treasurer.

Supporting the city with beautification efforts and providing other things like forms for school board, mayoral or city council elections, the Harris-Kemper uses funds from the walking tours to continue supporting St. Joseph. There is one fundraiser a year other than member dues.

Dvorak mentioned that coming from California, she has found a community in the district and has enjoyed her more than 15 years in the R.T. Davis home.

"This neighborhood has been very supportive and you can always count on somebody to help you out," Dvorak said.

As they begin the tours next month, they hope to continue using the funds to support whatever need they can in the community.

For those interested in the walking tours, tickets can be purchased at hauntedhk.square.site. Each tour leaves every 20 minutes with 16 spots per tour. Attendees can expect history lessons on Harris-Kemper, psychic readings at the R.T. Davis mansion and refreshments at the host home at 302 N 20th St.

For membership information, visit the Harris-Kemper Historic District Neighborhood Association on Facebook.