Government of Canada Recognizes Mount Hermon Cemetery for its Historic Significance

October 1, 2016                              Québec, Quebec                                               Parks Canada Agency

Joël Lightbound, Member of Parliament for Louis-Hébert (Quebec), on behalf of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, Catherine McKenna, today unveiled a commemorative plaque from the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada (HSMBC) to recognise the national historical significance of Mount Hermon Cemetery.

A special ceremony was held at the cemetery, in the heart of the Sainte-Foy-Sillery borough, in the Québec City area. Representatives of Mount Hermon Cemetery, a former member of the HSMBC and proud citizens were in attendance to mark this historical commemoration.

Established in 1848 for the burial of the various Protestant denominations of the city of Québec and its suburbs, Mount Hermon is a great example of a small rural or park-like cemetery that includes a wide range of funerary monuments, many tree species and winding roads that offer outstanding views of the St. Lawrence River.

As we near the 150th anniversary of Confederation in 2017, the Government invites Canadians to experience and learn more about our environment and our heritage. Canada’s national parks, national marine conservation areas and national historic sites belong to all Canadians. They represent the best Canada has to offer and tell the stories of who we are, including the history, cultures and contributions of Indigenous Peoples.

 

Quotes

“The Government of Canada is very pleased to commemorate this place filled with history and emotion that allows us to recognize the legacy Mount Hermon Cemetery represents for Canadians. As well, its picturesque landscape is conducive to meditation.”

Joël Lightbound,
Member of Parliament for Louis-Hébert (Quebec)”

“Mount Hermon Cemetery is honoured by the Government of Canada’s recognition and is committed to continuing the conservation initiatives and promotion of its rich heritage. We see this national historic site designation as a pivotal moment in the existence of the cemetery. This designation, we hope, will encourage the consolidation of existing partnerships and the development of new innovative partnerships in the enhancement of this unique site that reflects the rich history of families of all backgrounds who have contributed to making Canada what it is today. ”

Mark Brennan,
Executive Director, Mount Hermon Cemetery

 

Quick Facts

• Mount Hermon was one of the earliest rural cemeteries established in Canada, and may be the oldest of its kind in the province.
• In addition to its beautiful setting, Mount Hermon Cemetery includes the original caretaker’s lodge and vault, mature trees, as well as a number of significant funerary monuments. All are integrated into the natural, picturesque environment according to the cemetery’s original plan.
• Created in 1919, the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada advises the Minister of Environment and Climate Change on the national historic importance of the sites, people and events that marked Canada's history.

 

Related product

Backgrounder:  Mount Hermon Cemetery

 

Related Links

Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada

Mount Hermon Cemetery

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Information
Kimberly Labar 
Communications and Public Relations Officer
Quebec Field Unit 
Parks Canada
Tel.: 418-648-4444
kimberly.labar@pc.gc.ca

Media Relations
Parks Canada Agency
Tel.: 855-862-1812
pc.media@pc.gc.ca