Project number: [JOWBR, CAN-04535]

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The BETH ISRAEL OHEV SHOLOM Cemetery in SAINTE-FOY, QUÉBEC, CANADA

The Beth Israel Ohev Sholom Cemetery, consecrated early 1850s, became property of the Beth Israel Ohev Sholem Congregation in 1894. Restored 1976, it is 1 of 2 Canadian cemeteries associated with the first Jewish settlers 18th century. Rectangular, surrounded by a fence, contains a funeral chapel. In 1992, Historic Sites & Monuments Board of Canada recognized Beth Israel Cemetery as a site of national historic significance for its historical & architectural values, the 1st recognized as an outstanding example of landscapes reflecting cultural traditions. The age, the funeral chapel, arrangement of graves, shape of gravestones & use of Jewish symbols together make this a unique site typical of Jewish cemeteries. modest, bearing inscriptions in Hebrew and a great variety of religious symbols. All these features reflect Jewish beliefs, including that of the equality of everyone in the face of death. http://www.quebec400.gc.ca/histoires-stories/beth-israel-eng.cfm

The cemetery is associated with the ongoing presence of the Jewish community in Québec City for more than 200 years, making this the second-oldest Jewish community in North America. The first members arrived with General Amherst in 1759 and contributed to the economic growth of the new British colony. They played an important role in the demands for an elected House of Assembly, voiced starting from 1763. Subsequently, members of the Jacobs, Levy, Joseph, Peters and Pollack families in particular took an active part in the city's ongoing development.

The cemetery is very well maintained, fenced in, and neatly laid out in rows.