Pioneer Cemeteries threatened by unkempt rivers

Along the riverbanks of Cape Breton, especially in the Highland region, pioneer cemeteries stand as silent witnesses to the past. These burial grounds tell stories of early settlers, their lives, and their communities. Yet, many of these cemeteries now face a serious threat: erosion caused by unkempt rivers that run beside them. One notable example is the Centre Glen Cemetery in Baddeck Forks, where the riverbank is steadily washing away graves and monuments.

The significance of pioneer cemeteries in Cape Breton

Pioneer cemeteries hold immense cultural and historical value. They mark the resting places of the first families who settled the region, often dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. These cemeteries provide insight into genealogy, local history, and early community life. For descendants and historians alike, they are irreplaceable records of heritage.

In Cape Breton’s Highland region, many pioneer cemeteries are located near rivers. Early settlers often chose riverbanks for their proximity to water and fertile land. Over time, these cemeteries became part of the natural landscape, blending with the environment. Unfortunately, this closeness to water now puts them at risk.

At the Centre Glen Cemetery in Baddeck Forks, erosion has become a visible and alarming problem. Graves near the river’s edge have been collapsing into the water at an alarming rate as the soil supporting the burial plots continues to wash away, threatening to erase parts of the cemetery entirely. So far, approximately 20 feet of ground has been lost causing an estimated 20-30 graves to collapse and wash away.

This erosion not only damages physical markers but also disturbs the sanctity of the site. Up until 1985, this cemetery was active with Christena Maclean being the last person to be laid to rest. This situation raises serious concerns about respect for those buried there and the loss of historical information that cannot be recovered once washed away.

Bank Swallows and Their Endangered Habitat

Bank swallows, known for their distinctive brown and white plumage and agile flight, rely on sandy banks and eroded cliffs to create their nesting sites. These small birds excavate tunnels into the soft soil, where they lay their eggs and raise their young. Unfortunately, increasing erosion due to climate change, human activity, and natural processes is threatening these vital nesting habitats. As riverbanks and cliffs erode, the availability of suitable nesting sites diminishes, leading to a decline in bank swallow populations.

In the video above, you can see a number of tunnels that these birds have dug into the banks supporting the Centre Glen cemetery. Already they've lost a lot of their home and will continue to keep losing them unless conservation efforts to mitigate erosion and protecting existing habitats are prioritized. This can be accomplished by rocking the bank to protect both the habitat for the bank swallows as well as the graves of our forefathers.

Why protecting these cemeteries matters

Preserving pioneer cemeteries is about more than just saving old stones. It involves:

• Honoring ancestors: These sites are places of remembrance and respect for families and communities.

• Maintaining historical records: Gravestones provide names, dates, and sometimes stories that help trace local history.

• Supporting cultural identity: Cemeteries connect present-day residents with their heritage and roots.

• Promoting education: Schools and researchers use these sites to teach about settlement patterns and genealogy.

• Protecting existing habitats: Cemeteries serve as quiet sanctuaries for diverse flora and fauna which contributes to biodiversity and ecological balance in the region.

  
  

Allowing erosion to destroy these cemeteries would mean losing all these benefits. It would also diminish the unique character of Cape Breton’s Highland region.

Steps to address erosion and protect cemeteries

Communities, local governments, and heritage organizations must be able to work together to take action and slow erosion at pioneer cemeteries to preserve these historic landmarks for future generations. This can include:

• Riverbank stabilization: Planting native vegetation with strong root systems helps hold soil in place. Installing natural barriers like logs or rocks can reduce water flow impact.

• Engineering solutions: In some cases, building retaining walls or riprap (rock armoring) along the riverbank may be necessary to prevent further soil loss.

• Regular monitoring: Keeping track of erosion rates and damage allows for timely interventions before graves are lost.

• Community involvement: Engaging local residents in cleanup, maintenance, and advocacy raises awareness and support.

• Documentation and mapping: Creating detailed records of cemetery layouts and grave locations preserves information even if physical damage occurs.

It was community involvement that started and sustained this island, and despite what widespread media wishes to portray, it is community involvement that will continue to preserve this island for future generations.