Winnipeg’s beautiful Brookside Cemetery was recently designated a National Historic Site by the Government of Canada.
It’s a significant achievement, putting Brookside on a distinguished list of national treasures, becoming the 24th National Historic Site in Winnipeg. Other recognized sites include the Exchange District, Louis Riel’s Grave, and The Forks.
“It’s an immense honour, and I’m so pleased that Brookside received the historical status it deserves,” said Brett Shenback, City of Winnipeg Cemeteries Administrator.
“Brookside Cemetery is a special place to so many residents, and unique in so many ways – from its garden design, to its impressive Field of Honour.”
The property has transformed since 1878 from a flat, barren piece of land, to a peaceful and tranquil place where more than 100,000 people have been laid to rest, including over 10,000 Veterans.
One of Canada’s largest military cemeteries
The Field of Honour at Brookside Cemetery is one of the nation’s largest military cemeteries.
“It has a large First World War era section that displays a distinctive design that pre-dates the standard approach of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission,” said Shenback.
“It reflects the efforts of local service groups to honour fallen soldiers.”
Brookside’s landscape design is also unique. It’s one of the oldest and largest examples of the garden style cemetery in Western Canada.
“Brookside has winding roads and a natural landscape designed in a picturesque way. With a range of plants and waterways, a variety of monuments, and a park-like design, it’s quite rare.”
To learn more about Brookside Cemetery, visit winnipeg.ca/cemeteries.