How To Research the Background of a Cemetery

St. James Cemetery

Like to Thank Ontario Genealogical Society Preservation Committee for the info to make this blog post.

One of the most important challenges when dealing with any cemetery problem is discovering all that you can about the cemetery. Set out some specific goals. Begin your search locally. When dealing with any issue, it is essential to know the legal description, such as the township )former and present), lot and, concession, street address and perhaps global position. Learn all of the names by which the cemetery may have been or is currently known. The number of alternate names that you can find will amaze you. Knowing the religious affiliation (if any) will also assist you t find the records.

Visiting the Cemetery

A visit to the cemetery should be a high priority and will give you some perspective. Before you enter, make sure that it is not located on private property. if possible, take pictures of the site and be sure to include any areas where you perceive a problem. Some cameras print the date and/or time on the picture. It is important to date the photos. A simple way to date a photo is to have someone take a picture of you holding a newspaper with the headline in plain view.

Local Library

Visit the library in the town closest to the cemetery. many have a special area for books and/or information on local families and the locality. many townships published a book at the time of Canada's Centennial in 1967. These are especially useful. As well as pursuing books, see if there are any collections of such things as newspaper articles.

Be meticulous. Cite all of your sources and state in which repository the sources were found. Ensure that you cite at least the author or compiler or originating agency; title, date of publication or record creation or filing; and file number or chapter title. Citations allow other researchers to find the same source, so be sure to provide enough information with that in mind.

St. Phillips Cemetery

Toronto Libraries

There are two major libraries to consult in Toronto; first is North York Public Library which located at 5120 Younge Street. The Canadiana Collection is on the 6th floor. There are two areas that hold burial and gravestone info on this floor. The public Stacks in 929 area and the local history area by the librarians desk.

The Second library of note is the Toronto Reference Library at 789 Yonge Street (just north of bloor). They also have a collection of cemetery transcriptions and the map collection is on the 4th floor.

Local Archives/Museums

Many townships also have a local archives and/or museums that hold useful collections. They might have photographs of their area that include early ones of the cemetery.

Be sure to call ahead or check for a website to determine the hours of opening. Check also to see if you have to book a microfilm reader. Remember that you will only be able to use a pencil and probably will not be able to take a large bag into the reading room.

The Archives of Ontario

The Archives of Ontario are located at 77 Grenville Street in Toronto. You can enter from wither College or Grenville Street. There you will find a collection of newspapers on microfilm and cemetery transcriptions. They also have a fine collection of photographs and maps.