About Elmwood

Elmwood stands as an enduring record of Perth’s past, preserving the lives, stories, and legacy of the community it has served for more than 150 years. Established in 1872, this private cemetery was created during a period of growth and change, when the town recognized the need for a new, purpose-built burial ground beyond its original limits.

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By the mid-19th century, Perth’s earliest burial site—commonly known as the Old Burying Ground on Craig Street—had reached capacity, and concerns over public health made continued use untenable. In 1866, a group of civic-minded residents petitioned Town Council to establish a new cemetery. Guided by health regulations requiring burial grounds to be located outside the town, these citizens went on to formally create the Perth Cemetery Company under the Consolidated Statutes of Upper Canada. The company was officially founded on January 26, 1872.

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Elmwood was originally located outside Perth, but over time the town boundaries have expanded to include the cemetery. The property extends well beyond the currently maintained area, allowing for continued growth. Since its founding, Elmwood has been managed by a volunteer Board of Trustees made up of Interment Rights Holders, and operates as a registered charity dedicated to preserving this sacred space for generations to come.

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As a registered charitable organization, Elmwood Cemetery relies on community support to maintain its grounds, protect its monuments, and preserve the landscape for future generations. Donations contribute directly to conservation efforts and the ongoing care of this Historic site. Charitable tax receipts are available.

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Currently, Elmwood Cemetery is the final resting place of over 10,000 interments, each representing a chapter in the story of Perth and the surrounding region. From its earliest settlers and community builders to generations of families who followed, the cemetery’s monuments and markers form a tangible link to the town’s heritage and heart.​