Friends of Elmwood Cemetery, Winnipeg, MB, Canada

A Vision at the Turn of the 21st Century

Elmwood Cemetery in the prairie winter

The grounds of Elmwood Cemetery had been allowed to deteriorate over time. Encouraged by the City of Winnipeg and the Province of Manitoba, a small group of private citizens resolved to bring the Cemetery back to its original dignity and grace.

They shared an intensely personal interest in Elmwood Cemetery - a father buried there, a mother, a brother, parents, a friend, a mentor. They formed a not-for-profit organization: The Friends of Elmwood Cemetery Inc. In 1998, The Friends acquired the property and created a vision for Elmwood Cemetery.

THE FIRST OBJECTIVE

TO RESTORE AND MAINTAIN THE APPEARANCE OF THE CEMETERY,
AND TO CREATE A PLAN FOR THE FUTURE

As part of an extensive reforestation plan, replacement of dozens of century-old trees lost to disease now is in progress. An effective grounds maintenance program is in full operation. The progress of change has been continuous and positive.

The original entrance off Henderson Highway has been closed to vehicular traffic and is now the site of Henderson Gate Memorial Garden. For those who prefer in-ground interment, space is still available, although limited. Recognizing that ash burials have become the preference of the majority of people today, Henderson Gate Memorial Garden now provides an alternative to traditional burial. Within the massive iron gates, classically designed columbaria offer ash niches within distinctive monuments that dignify and commemorate the human spirit. Benches situated along a gently winding walkway, provide a reflective spot where people can visit their loved ones within a secure and naturally beautiful surrounding. A discreet garden shrub and perennial garden provides year-round beauty and peaceful solitude. Henderson Gate Memorial Garden is an integral part of the Elmwood Cemetery grounds, welcoming people of all faiths.

THE SECOND OBJECTIVE

TO MAKE ELMWOOD CEMETERY FINANCIALLY SELF-SUFFICIENT

An endowed fund has been established with The Winnipeg Foundation, who receives and manages donations to The Friends of Elmwood Cemetery Perpetual Care Fund.

The Friends have established a goal of $5 Million for this endowed fund. When this has been achieved, interest from this fund will ensure that a high standard of perpetual care will carry on into the future, and that Elmwood Cemetery will never again be allowed to decline.

THE THIRD OBJECTIVE

TO COMMUNICATE WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS

The Friends of Elmwood Cemetery are interested in re-connecting with the family and friends of those gone before by collecting the stories or remembrances of family members and friends interred at Elmwood Cemetery.