When it started in 2001, the cemeteries were overgrown, stones were tipping and the overall condition was deteriorating rapidly.
President Philip McCavour says they started the project in 2001 by clearing all the brush and brambles from around the perimeter and built some roads throughout the cemetery to make it more accessible. He tells CHSJ News some seniors hadn't been able to visit their family plots for several years.
They fixed approximately 150 of the gravestones, filled in the sunken graves, planted new grass and sod, planted 120 trees around the perimeter, installed a water system and built a visitors centre, among other things.
The cemeteries date back almost 200 years. With the improvements, McCavour says they're now a much more fitting tribute to those who have passed away.
Today is Cemetery Day, which marks the official opening of the cemeteries. The grounds will be open until 5pm today for touring.
