10/12/2025
The Optimist Club of Roseburg will present the second annual “Ghosts of Roseburg Tour” this month.
In-person group tours around downtown Roseburg will showcase real historic characters and reenactments of past events, thanks to a collaboration with the Umpqua Community College drama department. Those on the tour will be treated to true tales of the past as they walk down the very same streets some lively historic figures once did, even before the city was founded in 1851.
“I love bringing the past alive for our local residents,” said event organizer Valerie Gordon, a member of the Roseburg Optimist Club. “We encourage people to come out, enjoy the twilight atmosphere of our beautiful downtown, learn about their town’s history and support our community.”
The tour this year includes changes based on feedback from last year’s inaugural event.
Tours will be offered on two weekends, for a total of eight guided excursions that last about one and a half hours. There is an option for a VIP guided tour that will end the night at the Elks Club with entertainment presented by The Grand Victorian Theater of Myrtle Creek and a prime rib dinner (vegetarian options are available). All tour participants will get a souvenir.
The Ghosts of Roseburg Tour is based on the self-guided Ghosts of Roseburg Past walking tour created by Jennifer Grafiada in 2022 and available on the VoiceMap app, with the assistance of a tourism grant from the City of Roseburg.
“There are stories that will give you chills, and stories that inspire. Everyone should learn about these colorful characters, and this is a great way to enjoy an immersive night out while supporting a good cause,” said Grafiada.
All proceeds raised will support the Optimist Club’s youth programs, including “Chalk Art in the Park,” school snack packs, school hygiene kits, and the club’s Safety Day Program for schools. The Optimist Club and the UCC Theater Arts students will volunteer their time and talent.
Tickets are now on sale at HauntedRoseburg.com. To get tour updates, like the page Facebook.com/ghostsofroseburgpast.
