Take notice that the Council of the Corporation of the Village of Merrickville-Wolford intends to designate the property municipally known as 448 County Road 23, also currently known as “McGuigan Cemetery” (see key map below) as a property of cultural heritage value or interest under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act, R.S.O. 1990, as amended, (c.O.18, Sec. 29)
Cultural Heritage Value: 448 County Road 23
The McGuigan Cemetery, nestled at 448 County Road 23 Road, stands as a poignant testament to Eastern Ontario’s rich history. Spanning approximately 20,000 square feet, this sacred ground holds within it the echoes of centuries past. Established around 1806, McGuigan Cemetery is a cornerstone of Merrickville-Wolford’s heritage, making it one of the oldest cemeteries in the region. Its significance is palpable, with each tombstone whispering tales of pioneers who shaped the landscape with their toil and perseverance. From Samuel McCrea, whose resting place dates back to 1806, to the Irish laborers who lost their lives during the construction of the Rideau Canal, the cemetery bears witness to the struggles and triumphs of those who came before us.
Originally part of a 100-acre farm owned by William Robert Nicholson, the cemetery’s association with notable figures such as Miles McGuigan and Samuel E. McCrea only adds to its historical allure. The names etched upon its tombstones—McCrea, Stafford, Cox, McCrea, Nicholson, Chester, Tackaberry, Weedmark, Alexander, Gibson, Davidson, Dougherty, Campbell, Bigham, Lake, Nicklesson, and many more—serve as a reminder of the diverse tapestry of settlers who once called this land home.
Walking through McGuigan Cemetery is akin to stepping back in time. Its rural charm, characterized by meandering pathways and a variety of tombstone styles, evokes a sense of tranquility amidst the passage of time. Each stone, whether adorned with intricate designs or standing weathered by the years, tells a story of its own, adding depth to the narrative woven into the cemetery’s soil. Moreover, the presence of unmarked fieldstones speaks volumes about the hardships endured by the Irish laborers during the canal’s construction—a silent tribute to their sacrifice and contribution to the region’s development.
McGuigan Cemetery is not merely a burial ground; it is a living testament to the resilience and spirit of those who came before us. Its preservation is not just an act of remembrance but a commitment to honoring the legacy of those who shaped Eastern Ontario’s landscape. As such, it stands as a vital piece of our heritage, a place where the past converges with the present, reminding us of the debt we owe to those who paved the way for future generations.
Description of Heritage Attributes:
- Original location and dimensions: The cemetery’s original site, orientation, and dimensions offer insights into its historical context and evolution over time.
- Placement of gravesites: The positioning of gravesites reflects the organization and layout of the cemetery as it was originally intended, providing a glimpse into past burial practices and societal norms.
- Original grave markers and inscriptions: The surviving grave markers and stones, along with their inscriptions, serve as tangible links to the individuals interred within the cemetery, preserving their memory and stories for future generations.
- Variety of styles, materials and symbolism: The diverse array of marker styles, materials used, and symbolic motifs present on the grave markers offer a rich tapestry of cultural and artistic expression from the time periods they represent.
- Range of marker sizes and sophistication: From simple fieldstones to intricately carved tombstones, the range of markers sizes and levels of craftmanship reflects the socio-economic diversity and cultural preferences of those memorialized in the cemetery.
- Surviving physical attributes: The physical attributes of the markers, including their form, material composition, and functional elements, provide valuable insights into historical burial practices and memorialization traditions.
- Representative example of 19th Century rural cemetery: McGuigan Cemetery stands as a representative example of 19-century rural cemeteries, embodying the prevailing attitudes towards death and commemoration.
- Undisturbed grave sites: The undisturbed nature of the grave sites underscores the respect and reverence accorded to the deceased and reinforces the cemetery’s roles as a sacred resting place.
- Association within William Robert Nicholson and Rideau Canal Workers: Its original location on Nicholson’s farm and its association with workers involved in the construction, operation, and maintenance of the Rideau Canal contribute to its historical significance and connection to broader regional narratives.
- Contribution to historical environment: McGuigan Cemetery enriches the unique historical environment of the area, providing a tangible link to the past and enhancing our understanding of the landscape’s evolution over time.
These character-defining attributes underscore the vital role of McGuigan Cemetery as a repository of cultural heritage in Eastern Ontario. Through its preservation of ancestral memory and historical narratives, the cemetery not only honors past generations, but also deepens our appreciation of the region's rich history. As a sacred space where stories converge, McGuigan Cemetery enriches our collective understanding of the diverse tapestry of life in this historic area.
For further information with respect to the proposed designation please contact Julia McCaugherty-Jansman, Clerk by email at
Notice of objection to the proposed designation, together with a statement of the reasons for the objection and all relevant facts may be served on the Clerk of the Village of Merrickville-Wolford on or before the 16th day of November, 2024, in accordance with Section 29 of the Ontario Heritage Act.
Dated at the Village of Merrickville-Wolford this 17th day of October, 2024.
Julia McCaugherty-Jansman, Clerk
317 Brock St. West
PO Box 340
Merrickville, ON
K0G 1N0
Phone: (613) 269-4791
