A group of history teachers from across Virginia are taking part in a one-week institute with the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library.

The group toured Thornrose Cemetery in Staunton Wednesday.

The cemetery holds local history as it was built in the mid-19th century.

The old stone architecture was part of a 19th century movement to beautify public places that started with Central Park in New York City, according to tour guide Lucinda Cook.

"Out of that movement to beautify open spaces for the enjoyment of the public also came the desire to beatify public cemeteries. Because, in many places like Staunton, there may not have been a formal public park early on and so the cemetery in effect became a place where a family could come and have a picnic," says Cook.

The program is designed to improve Virginia teachers' knowledge and appreciation of American history.