Montgomery residents can explore their city's 19th-century downtown after dark on Saturday, October 24, when the city hosts Lanterns & Landmarks, a guided walking tour illuminated by lantern light.

The evening runs from 6 to 9 p.m. and begins inside the Universalist Church, where guests will be served appetizers, wine and other refreshments before heading outdoors for the tour, according to the city's event listing posted Wednesday.

The walk will wind through downtown Montgomery, highlighting the history and architecture of the city's landmark buildings.

Spots are limited. Registration opens Monday, September 7, on the city's website at montgomeryohio.gov.

Pricing and requirements

  • Montgomery residents: $20
  • Non-residents: $25
  • Attendees must be 21 or older

A landmark starting point

The Universalist Church itself carries nearly two centuries of Montgomery history. Built in 1837 by 18 founding members, the church was constructed with bricks formed from clay on a nearby farm. Some of those original bricks still bear the imprint of members' keys. Inside, a gold vine kerosene lamp chandelier dates to the church's earliest days.

The building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1970 as part of the Universalist Church Historic District, which also includes the Crain-Conklin Building, the Presbyterian Manse and the Pioneer Building. The city took ownership in 1986, and the church is held in trust as Montgomery's most outstanding landmark, according to the city's historical records.

A growing tradition

The city has hosted similar guided walks before. In May 2025, Assistant City Manager Tracy Henao led a daytime historic walking tour that also started at the Universalist Church, according to the city's Historic Preservation Month programming. The October event moves the format to after dark and adds lantern lighting and a social hour.

How to register

Registration opens Monday, September 7. The city has not published a direct registration link, but residents can check montgomeryohio.gov or contact City Hall for details.