North Grenville's cemeteries reflect the lives and stories of early settlers and the communities they established.
Nestled in the scenic landscapes of Eastern Ontario, North Grenville is a region steeped in history. Its well-preserved cemeteries offer visitors a unique glimpse into the area's storied past, serving as final resting places for the area's founding families, and also as cultural landmarks.
Among the most notable are Burritt’s Rapids Cemetery and Oxford Parish Anglican Cemetery, each with its own unique historical significance.
The Mystery of Sarah Mills' Gravestone by Harold Tompkins
In the quiet town of Oxford Mills, a forgotten gravestone has stirred curiosity and intrigue. Discovered last fall, leaning against the Union Cemetery vault, at Oxford Parish Anglican Cemetery the stone reads:
| "Sarah, wife of John Mills |
|---|
The inscription is accompanied by an engraving of a weeping willow which hints at a tale of loss and mourning, yet the stone raises more questions than it answers.
Who was Sarah Mills? And why was her monument not at her grave? Where was Sarah buried? What happened to her family? Why was the gravestone left at the cemetery, and what should be done with it?
Local historians understood that the stone, in remarkably good condition, likely didn't come from the local cemeteries, as they were not established until decades after Sarah's death.
Initial investigations reveal that Sarah lived in Oxford-on-Rideau township with her husband John and their sons, who were born in England. The family emigrated to Canada around 1834, settling on a farm in Oxford Mills. When she passed, Sarah was actually laid to rest in Kemptville, in the "Old Methodist Cemetery."
So the mystery lingers: where was Sarah's gravestone kept all these years, and why was it not placed at her grave?
The marker, now found, has been moved to rest beside her grandson, George Mills, in the same cemetery but the mystery of Sarah Mills' final resting place invites you to help uncover the full story.
If you have any information about this, please contact Harold Tompkins at 613-258-2975 or
The Enigma of Burritt’s Rapids Cemetery: Resting Place of the Burritt Family
The Christ Church Anglican Cemetery, often referred to as Burritt’s Rapids Cemetery, is a tranquil site, built in 1831.
The site, much like the village itself, tells a story of resilience, connection, and legacy, but it also challenges you to look deeper, to seek out the mysteries that lie just beneath the surface.
As you wander through the tranquil grounds, one can’t help but sense that each gravestone holds long-held Burritts Family secrets. The deep roots of this family spanned generations as they established the community.
Who were these people beyond their names and dates? What events shaped their lives? What untold stories lie beneath the quiet earth?
Although the exact number of Burritts who lived in the hamlet remains uncertain, their legacy is etched into numerous gravestones throughout the cemetery, each contributing to a rich tapestry of familial connections and long-forgotten narratives.
Many Burritt women married into other local families, intertwining their heritage with the broader community, but many of their stories remain lost to time. This cemetery stands as a testament to those who remained, offering a poignant glimpse into the historical continuity of this pioneering family.
A careful count of the gravestones provides a tangible link to the past, but the true stories of the Burritts are woven into the fabric of the village’s history, waiting for a curious soul to unravel them.
Will you be the one to uncover the hidden tales of Burritt’s Rapids Cemetery?
Preserving North Grenville's Heritage
Exploring the cemeteries of North Grenville is more than just a walk-through history; it’s a chance to connect with the region's rich heritage and personal stories. From Sarah Mills’ mysterious gravestone in Oxford Parish Anglican Cemetery to the enduring legacy of the Burritt family in Burritt’s Rapids Cemetery, each site offers a unique glimpse into the past.
These cemeteries serve as vital historical records, helping us understand the lives of those who came before us. They highlight the importance of preserving history, honoring memories, and recognizing the cultural significance of these sacred grounds.
As you wander through these sites, reflect on the stories etched in stone. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, genealogist, or curious visitor, North Grenville’s cemeteries provide a profound and enriching experience. They stand as silent witnesses to the passage of time, inviting us to remember, honor, and learn from the past.
We also encourage you to explore the historical societies of North Grenville, Merrickville, and North Gower for more fascinating stories from the region. These societies offer deeper insights into the area's history and its people, enhancing your appreciation of the cemeteries and the broader historical context. By engaging with these organizations, you can uncover personal narratives and cultural insights that have shaped the communities of North Grenville and its surroundings.
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We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Bart Bilmer for his invaluable contributions of information and photos for Burritt’s Rapids Cemetery.
