Pioneer Cemetery

My entry to #cemeteryphotos initiated by @melinda010100.

Hubby and I happen to come across the sign for a pioneer cemetery while in Bear River, Kings Co., P.E.I. I wanted to check it out.

After passing St. Margaret’s Church, we followed a well maintained, long dirt road. A few farms were among the heavy forested area and I thought,

”There can’t be anything to look at out here.”

I was pleasantly surprised as we came upon this beautiful, peaceful resting place that overlooks the sea.

I didn’t see many residents in the area but it was once more densely populated than it is today.

St. Margaret Of Scotland Pioneer Cemetery

This is a closeup of the monument under the wooden Celtic Cross that graces the entrance.





This cemetery was in a state of neglect until restoration in 1973-74. By that time many of the headstones had been broken, while many more had fallen over.

Although the cemetery is well maintained now, many of the old headstones could not be repaired and are on the ground.





The low stone border was unearthed when the renovations were done.

There are over 600 burials listed. The cemetery was used by the St. Margaret’s Roman Catholic congregation for nearly 100 years.

The names of many area residents are not always recorded. Because of the harsh life of the pioneer settlers there could be up to 1200 people interred here.


In this enclosed case near the entrance are pictures of the renovation that went on to restore and beautify the cemetery.





There was pleasant feeling in the cemetery. I believe those resting there were at peace.





Cemetery Challenge Info

Location: Prince Edward Island, Canada.

Photos and stories by @ redheadpei. All Rights Reserved

#thealliance