Cataraqui Cemetery

Cataraqui Cemetery is a national historic site covering 91 acres in Kingston with rolling terrain, ponds, and streams throughout its grounds. The cemetery features Gothic Revival monuments with ornate detailing and contains more than 46,000 graves arranged across the landscaped grounds.

The cemetery was established in 1850 by Frederick Cornell as a response to burial needs in the growing community. It received its national historic site designation in 2011 for its role in 19th-century cemetery design philosophy and architecture.

The grounds hold graves of people from many religious and cultural backgrounds who shaped Kingston's identity over generations. The varied monuments and inscriptions show how different communities express remembrance and respect in their own ways.

The cemetery lies about 5 kilometers from downtown Kingston and is easily reached by car from the city. The grounds are open for visitors to walk the pathways and view the monuments throughout the property.

The cemetery holds the grave of Sir John A. Macdonald, Canada's first prime minister, whose burial site has been recognized as historically significant since 1938. This burial represents a connection to figures who shaped the nation's early years.

Location: Kingston

Inception: 1850

Address: 927 Purdy's Mill Road 1080 Sydenham Road

GPS coordinates: 44.26444,-76.54111

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:28