Old Cemeteries Society of Victoria
The Old Cemeteries Society of Victoria (OCS) is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting awareness of heritage cemeteries in Victoria, British Columbia. Founded informally in 1983, it was formalized in 1984 as a committee under the Victoria Historical Society before evolving into an independent entity. The society focuses on historical research, monument conservation, and public education related to Victoria’s burial grounds, with a primary emphasis on Ross Bay Cemetery.

History

The OCS originated from collaborations between local genealogists, monument makers, and historians concerned about cemetery vandalism and preservation[2]. By 1985, it organized provincial symposiums to address cemetery conservation challenges and share best practices. Key milestones include producing A Guide for the Recording, Care and Use of British Columbia’s Heritage Cemeteries, a handbook based on work at St. Stephen’s Churchyard, which serves as a model for documenting cemetery history and symbolism[2].

Activities

• Preservation Efforts: Volunteers restore gravestones, combat vandalism, and digitize burial records[1].
• Educational Programs: The society conducts walking tours at Ross Bay Cemetery, highlighting figures such as Sir James Douglas, Amor de Cosmos, and Isabella Ross[4][3].
• Public Engagement: Annual Ghost Walks in October blend local folklore with historical narratives, while workshops and lectures address cemetery conservation[3].

Ross Bay Cemetery

Established in 1872, Ross Bay Cemetery is the society’s primary focus. It contains graves of prominent provincial figures and exemplifies Victorian-era burial customs[4]. The OCS installed an interpretive plaque for Isabella Ross, an early Indigenous landowner in BC, whose unmarked grave was identified through research[4].

Publications

The society publishes Stone Cuttings, a biannual newsletter detailing restoration projects, member activities, and historical profiles[1].

As a registered nonprofit (Business Number 890164783RR0001), the OCS operates through volunteerism and donations, emphasizing community involvement in heritage stewardship.