The Old Village Cemetery continues to receive improvements to its beautiful grounds. The 1837 cemetery is located next to the millpond in downtown Brighton. The grounds are sheltered under the canopy of mature trees, which gives all visitors a peaceful experience.
The alley next to Saint Pauls Episcopal Church and Old Village Cemetery is undergoing massive rehabilitation. Brush and overgrowth has been removed and a new wall has been erected along the east property line formerly hidden behind a dilapidated cyclone fence.
A new parking lot is transforming the area previously shrouded in brush and debris for decades. A new ornamental fence will separate the cemetery and parking lot. This fence will be located above the wall and will match the existing cemetery fence.
In this area are the remnants of an old crypt as evidenced by the cut stone structure protruding from the hillside. During winter and prior to power machinery, bodies were stored here until spring. Access to the crypt room was through this stone facade. A portion of the stonework, which had deteriorated over the years, was restored as part of this project. Visitors will see and appreciate the beautiful work done by stonemasons in the late 1800s. A plaque explaining the former use of the structure and providing information about stonemasonry will be donated.
The BAHS is thrilled to have the east property line of this historic burial ground undergoing rehabilitation. Once completed, this view of Old Village Cemetery can be seen from the new parking lot and from Grand River.
Thank you to the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) and the Planning and Community Development Department of the City of Brighton. A portion of these grant funds will provide improvements to one of the oldest historic landscapes of our community!
Jim Vichich