A brief history of South Kinloss Cemetery

In 1857, the first person was laid to rest in the South Kinloss Cemetery. In 1873, an official plan was drawn by James Marshall for the church and cemetery on the south east corner of Lot 11, Con. 2, Kinloss Township.

In 1902 for the sum of $225, five acres (that part of the present cemetery on the east side of the east driveway) on the south west corner of Lot 12, Con. 2, Kinloss, was purchased. This parcel of land was known as the new cemetery. Up until the present time, only seven ranges (or rows) for burial purposes has been surveyed in this new section. Work is now commencing to develop part of the remaining 3 acres for burial purposes.

In early years, cemeteries throughout Ontario were generally in need of much better care. In 1930, Rev. A. M. (Sandy) Nicholson called a meeting to discuss plans to improve the cemetery. Being extremely energetic as well as an excellent financial organizer, he was mainly responsible for starting the perpetual care fund – which has been adopted by the provincial government for all cemeteries in Ontario. It was also in 1930 that the cemetery was incorporated.

As a community, we are indebted to his foresight and interest, as well as to the many directors, and caretakers during this period. On August 2, 1953, a dedication service for the new memorial gates and fence was held. This was truly a community effort – as many gave financial support. On August 4, 1957, the cemetery celebrated its centennial.

On September 1, 1963 the South Kinloss Memorial Chapel/Mausoleum was dedicated. This building has been used many times over the years by South Kinloss Cemetery and surrounding community.