Jean

Keely

Jean Keely is honored for her extensive involvement in the programming of the City of Washington's Historical Society. She developed and serves as chairman of the annual ?A Celebration of Life in the Cemetery,? an event?now in its fourth year?that celebrates the many individuals and families that have lived, worked, or passed through the community since 1825. She chooses each particular historical burial site, enlists portrayers to reenact each deceased, often does historical research, and has even developed a relationship with Washington Middle School. The program she spearheaded gives young students the opportunity to do research, develop scripts for the portrayers, and even act as historical figures. Ms. Keely also coordinates ?points of interest,? in which visitors learn more about certain grave markers, including interesting facts about particular symbols or unique scripts inscribed on the markers. She also oversees the event, coordinating workers and logistics for the day. In addition to her work with the cemetery walk, Ms. Keely also serves as a board member, a member of the fund raising committee, and is a past board secretary of the Washington Historical Society.