Union Cemetery

History of Union Cemetery

In 1833, Robert N. Thornton (1806 - 1875), a Secessionist Minister (United Presbyterian), arrived as a missionary from Scotland. Within four years of Thornton's arrival in the township, the first church was constructed. Most pioneer churches were built on one acre, "God's Acre," providing enough space for a church and a burying ground. However, this church had 19 acres that now is the southwest corner of Union Cemetery at Thornton Rd. N. and King St. W. in Oshawa.

From these pioneer beginnings, Oshawa Union Cemetery has grown to be an active facility of 32 acres in size, with over 25,000 burial locations. Many of the area's pioneers and their children are buried in "Thornton's Burying Ground." In addition, Union Cemetery is the resting place of individuals, including Col. R.S. McLaughlin, the Pedlar family and artist Florence Helena McGillivray.

Visit the Oshawa Community Museum website for more information.

Frequently asked questions

View our frequently asked questions about Union Cemetery.

Can I donate a tree or bench?

If you wish to honour a loved one with a lasting memory, you can donate a tree or bench in a City park. Visit the Commemorative Tree and Bench Program webpage to learn more.

Can I place artificial flowers?

You can place artificial flowers in spiked containers adjacent to the headstone. Cemetery staff will remove artificial flowers if they look damager or interfere with cemetery maintenance.

Can I purchase an upright monument?

With the purchase of four lots in a square in designated areas of the cemetery, there are options for upright monuments to be placed.

Can I scatter cremated ashes at the cemetery?

You must have interment rights to perform the scattering option. There is a fee for scattering cremated ashes at the cemetery. Visit the Cemetery Services webpage.

Does the cemetery provide guided tours?

Guided historical tours of the cemetery are available for groups and school trips. For more information or to make arrangements, please contact Service Oshawa.

How big can I make my flowerbed?

You may plant a flowerbed adjacent to the base of a headstone marker. The flowerbed can be no bigger than 30 cm wide and cannot have raised edges. If there is no marker, planting requires the permission of cemetery staff.

How can I locate a plot?

Visit the Cemetery Services webpage to use the interactive map. You may also contact Service Oshawa at 905-436-3311, or visit the cemetery during hours of operation for staff assistance.

How many family members can be interred in one grave?

Each grave may have one traditional burial and four cremated remains.

When is Decoration Day?

Decoration day is the third Sunday of June.

Where can I place a winter wreath?

You can place a winter wreath starting November 1 and ending April 30. Securely anchor your wreath to the monument or on a stand. Cemetery staff will remove any wreaths left on the grounds starting May 1. Wreaths cannot contain glass.

Where can I purchase my marker and monument?

A wide variety of markers and monuments are available for purchase through the cemetery.