Dear friends of Glenwood Cemetery,
The Glenwood Chapel will remain closed to the public for the time being, and its stained glass windows will be removed this week for preservation and temporary storage after the discovery of structural deficiencies in the building. The historic designated heritage building, constructed in 1901, will require remediation to its foundation, as well as aspects of the interior of the building.
Sandy Latchford, Chair of the Board of Directors, says that engineering firm J.T. Donald Consultants Ltd. was retained to conduct a geotechnical investigation at the site.
"The results are troubling," Latchford says. "The rubble stone foundation is sitting on loose, unstable fill soils, and inadequate drainage is creating issues with the integrity of the building. The Board has decided to have the stained glass windows removed and safely stored while we evaluate the best course of action."
The stained glass windows are unusual in that they were commissioned by several fraternal organizations including the Independent Order of Foresters and the Freemasons. In 2023, Picton author, stained glass expert and Member of the Order of Canada Sarah Hall published a book titled "Secret Societies and Their Stained Glass" about the windows and the symbolism contained within them.
The window openings will be temporarily covered with plywood, and local arts organization The Department of illumination are partnering with Glenwood to paint the wooden placeholders in creative ways that honour the space.
"The windows are truly treasures of local heritage," Latchford continued. "It's imperative we keep them safe while inspections and work proceed."
Glenwood Cemetery, established in 1873 in the heart of Picton, is the resting place of 15,000 people throughout its 62 acres of rolling hills. Glenwood is a registered charity managed by a volunteer Board of Directors.
If you have any questions, we encourage you to reach out to us directly.
More information about the chapel's stained glass windows:
Copies of "Secret Societies and their Stained Glass" by Sarah Hall CM, RCA are available for purchase at Books & Company in Picton.