Kat Harlton
Photos: © Tiffany Shum | Harlton Empire
Visiting cemeteries in autumn can be a serene and reflective experience. The vibrant fall foliage adds a beautiful backdrop, making it the perfect time for a peaceful stroll or to pay your respects. Here are some of the most beautiful and historic Toronto cemeteries to visit this Fall.
Mount Pleasant Cemetery
Address: 375 Mt Pleasant Rd.
Mount Pleasant is one of Canada’s most historic cemeteries, and is stunning in the fall. Having served Toronto since 1876, it is the final resting place of many prominent Canadians, including former prime minister William Lyon Mackenzie King; Canada’s first female surgeon, Jennie Smillie-Robinson; popular Métis artist Youngfox; and renowned pianist Glenn Gould.
Mount Pleasant’s abundant tree collection makes the cemetery one of North America’s most significant arboretums. Large flower gardens, birds and other wildlife also enhance its natural beauty, along with its many unique works of art found throughout the grounds in sculptures and artist-made memorials. Mount Pleasant’s website also includes downloadble maps for 1KM, 3KM and 5KM walking/running routes.
St. James Cemetery
Address: 635 Parliament St.
St. James’ Cemetery and Crematorium, is Toronto’s oldest operating cemetery. Located on Parliament Street, just north of Wellesley, it opened in July of 1844, and is blessed with a rich history, beautiful grounds and the lovely and historic Chapel of St.-James-the-Less. The Chapel of St. James-the-Less is an important part of our Canadian cultural heritage and is unquestionably one of the finest examples of Gothic Revival church architecture in Canada.
Many notable Canadians are buried there including members of the Gooderham family (who owned a whisky distillery forming what is now known as the Distillery District), E.J Lennox the architect of Casa Loma, and many premiers, politicians and other well known figures.
Toronto Necropolis
Address: 200 Winchester St
Dating back to 1850, Toronto Necropolis is one of the city’s oldest and most historic cemeteries, and is characterized by breathtaking natural vistas and distinctive architecture including stained glass windows. It’s the final resting place of many notable people including legendary horror film director George A. Romero.
