St. Margarets Pioneer Cemetery Restoration

The St. Margaret of Scotland Pioneer Cemetery Restoration Committee hosted a fundraising event, in St. Margarets, PEI on August 9, 2009.  The objective was to host an event to raise awareness of the rich heritage and contribution of the early settlers and raise funds that will support the restoration of the Pioneer Cemetery.  This fundraiser was a new initiative of the St Margaret of Scotland Pioneer Cemetery Restoration Committee. Although there have been Parish Picnics in the past, to our knowledge there has not been an event to honor our ancestors buried in the Pioneer Cemetery. This project was an opportunity for the community to work together on an important heritage project. The committee held regular community meetings to ensure their involvement and support.  One example of decisions made at community meetings was how much to charge for the event. The community was adamant that we charge no more than $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under. 

The Pioneer Cemetery Fundraiser began with Mass in the St. Margaret of Scotland Pioneer Cemetery and the unveiling and blessing of the Celtic Cross.  A buffet lunch was served in the Church Hall. The afternoon events were held in the St. Margaret of Scotland Church.  Honourable Alan Campbell, Minister of Innovation and Advanced Learning, announced the designation of the Pioneer Cemetery as a Heritage Place. This was followed by a presentation on the life of the early settlers and a presentation on the progress of the Pioneer Cemetery restoration. The afternoon was concluded with a Ceilidh, which included songs, stories, bagpipes and fiddle tunes.

The Committee was successful in meeting its objectives thanks to the countless hours spent is completing the many tasks necessary to pull off such an event. $4523 was raised at the event: (Lottery - $953.70, Event registration - $1903.08, Mass Collection- $1276). These funds will allow the restoration of another section of the cemetery. Donations are still needed to complete the restoration of the headstones and the wall.

The Fundraising event was an opportunity to learn more about our heritage and raise funds to restore the beauty and dignity to the St. Margaret of Scotland Pioneer Cemetery which has fallen into disrepair.  The St. Margaret of Scotland Pioneer Cemetery Restoration Committee is very grateful for the support of all who offered their time, expertise and financial support. A great deal of progress has been made in restoring the cemetery. However there is still a great deal of work to be completed. Your continued participation and support will be appreciated. You can send donations to:

Pioneer Cemetery Fund  c/o St. Margarets Parish, Fairfield RR2, PEI, COA 2B0 Canada 

A tax receipt will be issued for all donations.

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