Skalholt Cemetery directional sign replaced
Before a meeting of the members of the Icelandic Canadian Club of Western Manitoba (ICCWM) scheduled at the Raystone Centre in Glenboro on Sunday, November 2, the group made a trek to the new directional signage installed for the Skalholt Icelandic Cemetery.
The following was written by Len Isleifson, President of the ICCWM.
“The Icelandic Canadian Club of Western Manitoba is proud to announce the completion of a community project to replace the directional sign for the historic Skalholt Icelandic Cemetery, located in the Municipality of Glenboro–South Cypress.
“Originally established in 1894, the Skalholt Cemetery holds a unique place in Manitoba’s cultural landscape. It was created for the exclusive use of people of Icelandic descent and stands today as one of only three known cemeteries in North America designated specifically for those of Icelandic heritage. The site reflects the strong cultural identity and community cohesion of Icelandic settlers who arrived in western Canada during the late 19th century, seeking to preserve their traditions and faith in their new homeland.”
The cemetery’s records, carefully maintained and documented by the Manitoba Genealogical Society and the Manitoba Historical Society, continue to serve as an important resource for genealogical and heritage research. Skalholt remains a meaningful landmark, symbolizing the enduring spirit of Icelandic pioneers in Manitoba.
In the fall of 2024, members of the Icelandic Canadian Club of Western Manitoba identified that the original sign marking the road to the Skalholt Cemetery had begun to deteriorate.
Recognizing its importance to visitors and descendants of those buried there, the club committed to replacing it. Through the generous support of club members and community fundraising, a baseline fund was established to begin the project.
Partnerships were then formed with the Municipality of Glenboro–South Cypress and the Glenboro Area Foundation, whose grant funding and logistical support helped bring the project to life. With manpower donated by local cemetery staff, the aging sign was carefully removed, and a new, durable replacement was installed this summer.
“The Skalholt Cemetery is a special part of our Icelandic-Canadian story,” said project lead and club member Steve Bjornson, who was recognized for his dedication and leadership throughout the initiative. “This new sign ensures that future generations can continue to find and honour this historic site.”
The Icelandic Canadian Club of Western Manitoba extends heartfelt thanks to all those who contributed—financially and through volunteer effort—to preserve the visibility and legacy of the Skalholt Icelandic Cemetery for years to come.
PHOTO CAPTION: Members of the Icelandic Canadian Club of Western Manitoba went to see the new sign that they committed to replacing just over a year ago to direct visitors to Skalholt Cemetery northeast of Glenboro. It is one of only three known cemeteries in North America designated specifically for those of Icelandic heritage. PHOTO BY SUZANNE PADDOCK
