Cemetery Mapping Project

Cemeteries represent an important heritage resource for Gaspesians.
Unfortunately, many of the grave memorials in the region’s cemeteries are deteriorating and many of the inscriptions, motifs and art designs that are faintly visible today may disappear altogether in another generation.

As the inscriptions from headstones of the first settlers dating back to the 1700’s are eroding, CASA felt it was vital that these links to the past are preserved - at the very least in photo format – so our rich heritage may be passed on to future generations.

The Gaspe Cemetery Mapping Project, funded by Canadian Heritage, began in 2005. This detailed cemetery recording will provide a permanent record of these headstones and a point of reference for researchers, tourists and Gaspesians searching for their heritage.

As at March 2008, fifty cemeteries have been located and mapped. A physical inventory of headstones in each cemetery is a labour-intensive task that will take years to complete. As recording can only take place during the summer months, this project will be a long-term one and will required the assistance of many volunteers who have an interest in preserving the past.