Photo Karen Graham.
St. Paul’s Cemetery was established in 1818 and in use before the church was built.
‘Truly a gem of historic heritage’ describes St. Paul’s Chapel and the 4th line cemetery, 1304 Zion Line, Cavan. Established in 1818, it represents one of the earliest established burying grounds of the Peterborough region; records indicate the first burials were in 1819 of a Christopher Hagerman in August and Joseph Murphy in October.
St Thomas’ Church, Millbrook (Anglican Parish of Cavan & Manvers), oversees the care and continuation of the cemetery and chapel. The chapel is no longer in use, but stands patiently waiting to be restored to some form of its previous glory.
The commemorating event takes place on Sunday, September 22nd at 2 pm and will begin with an acknowledgement that St. Paul’s is in the traditional Territory of the Mississaugas of Hiawatha First Nation part of the Treaty 20 land surrendered in 1818, followed by a tree planting and short program followed by a reception.
Several historical groups are assisting in the event including the Millbrook Cavan Historical Society and KARA Kawartha Ancestral Research Association, who will have displays of their materials available to participants.
Please join us in a time to share family history and memories, as we mark this important milestone. If you have a recent connection to the cemetery, have any pictures or recall reminiscences, please bring them with you on September 22 or send in advance by email to Sherry McMahon slm.bailieboro@gmail.com.
