Help Us Rebuild History at the Saint-Colomban Cemetery!

Join us in preserving the rich heritage of the Saint-Colomban Cemetery by supporting our fundraising campaign to rebuild the crumbling wall that safeguards numerous historic monuments. Together, we can ensure the protection and restoration of this sacred site for generations to come.

The Need

The existing wall supporting the monuments in the Saint-Colomban Cemetery is deteriorating, putting at risk the precious monuments that bear witness to the history of this cherished community. Without prompt intervention, these irreplaceable artifacts may be lost forever. We aim to raise $30,000 to rebuild the wall and safeguard the memory of the past.

Our Goal

With your generous contributions, we will rebuild the wall, reinforcing its structural integrity and preserving the historic monuments within its protective embrace. Your support will directly impact the preservation of this sacred space, enabling future generations to connect with their ancestors and appreciate the heritage that defines us.

Why it Matters

The Saint-Colomban Cemetery is not just a resting place for the departed but also a living testament to the cultural and historical legacy of our community. By rebuilding the wall, we are not only honoring the memory of those who came before us but also ensuring that their stories and contributions endure.

Join Us

Help us reach our $30,000 goal by making a donation today! Every contribution, big or small, makes a significant impact on the restoration of this sacred site. Together, let's watch the thermometer rise as we strive to rebuild history, one brick at a time.

Donate and Make a Difference

Visit our donation form to make a secure online donation. You can also contribute by sending a cheque to CIMPN at 61 rue Somerset, Baie D’Urfe, Quebec, Canada, H9X 2V8. Let's work together to rebuild the wall and preserve the remarkable legacy of the Saint-Colomban Cemetery.

Thank you for your support and for joining us in this important endeavor. Together, we can ensure that the past continues to inspire and educate future generations.

Memories from Fergus Keyes

SC-Irish Admin - Tue, 10/13/2020 - 12:01

Ernie & Mary (Mamie) McAndrew’s place.

We also visited the Ernie & Mary (Mamie) McAndrew’s farm. When I was older, once or twice, I took the Provincial bus and went to visit them for a few days. The bus would stop around Bonnibrooke Golf Course and I would walk the rest of the way.

I also bought some land, about an acre, from Ernie back in the late sixties for about
$1000.00 . I still own it and pay taxes to St. Columban. The taxes were originally about
$25.00 a year - but now are in the hundreds of dollars ! I know approximately where the land is - but with all the big development in the old pasture area, I doubt that I could actually find it without a land surveyor…

I remember helping Ernie bring in some hay one time with his horses and wagon. I was on the top of the wagon and Ernie was throwing up the hay. Suddenly the horses decided, on their own, to go back to the barn and took off. I wasn’t strong enough to stop them – maybe I was 12 or 14 at the time. Luckily they stopped by themselves when they got to the door. It was a helluva a ride and I don’t think that Ernie was impressed !

Another time I remember being there in the Winter – It was so quiet. My brother Bryan and I found something to slide down the driveway beside the farm house, and spent the whole day outside – it was great.

And once we trying to raise some money in Montreal for some event, and bought 100 Christmas Trees from Ernie. Of course, in the end I had to go with him to choose them & cut them down. Another really fun time with him.

And when he was well into his seventies, he had me help him dig some trenches. I was in pretty good shape, but did I ever have a hard time keeping up with him ….

We also rented Ernie’s small Grey cottage down the road, once or twice, for a few weeks in the summer.

And the mention of Neil Grimes and his music. About 1958 – 60, my parents rented the “Old Talbot Place” for the summer and we spent our time there. One night, they had a big party that I think everyone in St. Columban attended. Neil played music, and everyone was singing and dancing. I remember Harriet Grimes; of course Ernie & Mamie; some of the Phelans, Johnny & Daisy Funchion; and a whole bunch of other people. Again, I was young, about 10 – 12 years old, but that night was the first time I had ever seen the Northern Lights – a memory that I have never forgot – It was a perfect summer night and lots of fun !