Introduction to Toronto Necropolis
Toronto Necropolis is a cemetery located in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. It is one of the oldest cemeteries in the city and has a rich history. The cemetery is the final resting place for many notable individuals, including politicians, artists, and business leaders.
Historical background of Toronto Necropolis
Toronto Necropolis was established in 1850 during a time when Toronto was experiencing a high mortality rate due to diseases such as cholera and tuberculosis. The cemetery was created as a response to the need for a burial place for those who had passed away. At the time, the city’s only cemetery was located at St. James Church, which was quickly becoming overcrowded.
Who founded Toronto Necropolis?
The land for the cemetery was donated by William Botsford Jarvis, a prominent Toronto businessman, and politician. He donated the land to the City of Toronto with the condition that it be used as a cemetery. The cemetery was designed by Henry Bowyer Lane, an architect who was known for his work on churches and cemeteries.
The purpose of establishing Toronto Necropolis
The purpose of establishing Toronto Necropolis was to provide a final resting place for those who had passed away. At the time, the city was experiencing a high mortality rate, and the existing cemetery at St. James Church was becoming overcrowded. The establishment of Toronto Necropolis provided a much-needed solution to the problem.
The location of Toronto Necropolis
Toronto Necropolis is located in the Cabbagetown neighbourhood of Toronto. The cemetery is situated on a hill overlooking the city, providing a peaceful and serene final resting place for those who are buried there.
Construction and design of Toronto Necropolis
The cemetery was designed by Henry Bowyer Lane in the Gothic Revival style. The design of the cemetery includes winding paths, towering trees, and ornate monuments. The entrance gates to the cemetery were designed by the architect William Irving.
The first burial at Toronto Necropolis
The first burial at Toronto Necropolis took place in 1850. The individual was an infant named William Lyon Mackenzie, Jr., the son of the famous political leader William Lyon Mackenzie.
Development and expansion of Toronto Necropolis
Over the years, Toronto Necropolis has expanded to include additional sections and burial plots. In 1872, a crematorium was added to the cemetery, making it one of the first in North America to have one.
Notable individuals buried at Toronto Necropolis
Toronto Necropolis is the final resting place for many notable individuals, including William Lyon Mackenzie, Jr., the son of the famous political leader William Lyon Mackenzie, George Brown, a Canadian politician and journalist, and Timothy Eaton, the founder of Eaton’s department store.
Changes and renovations made to Toronto Necropolis
Over the years, Toronto Necropolis has undergone several renovations and changes. In the 1920s, the cemetery’s chapel was renovated, and a new entrance gate was added in 1930. In the 1980s, the cemetery underwent a major restoration project, which included repairing monuments and improving the landscaping.
The current state of Toronto Necropolis
Today, Toronto Necropolis is a peaceful and serene final resting place for those who are buried there. The cemetery is well-maintained, and visitors can take guided tours to learn more about its history.
Conclusion: The importance of Toronto Necropolis
Toronto Necropolis is an important part of Toronto’s history. It provides a final resting place for many notable individuals and serves as a reminder of the city’s past. The cemetery’s beautiful design and peaceful setting make it a popular destination for visitors and locals alike.
