Needles Cemetery
The following is a transcription of the Needles Cemetery located in Needles Ferry, British Columbia. , Canada.
Historical Background
This cemetery is located at the site of the former town of Needles on the Arrow Lakes. The flooding of the Arrow Reservoir in the 1960's inundated most of the townsite and all that remains is the ferry landing. The cemetery was above flood level and there are still occasional internments there, usually family members of those already there.
Layout
It is beginning to show signs of neglect. Stones are becoming overgrown, the maintenance shed is now in bad shape and it will be gone in a short time if no repair is made soon. Heavy brush is all around and prevents easy visibility.
A visit to the cemetery in June 2003 showed one new stone and there were flowers that had been placed there recently at a few graves. A 5 foot six inch chain link fence now surrounds the cemetery and a sign over the entrance reads "Needles Cemetery-since 1932".
There is no new overgrowth and it is evident that some maintenance is being done.
Driving Directions
Approaching from the west on Highway 6 from Vernon descend down to the lake and the ferry landing.
Just before the final turn to the landing (about 200 yards from it) a dirt road turns off to the right leading to a log dumping and booming area.
This road turns towards the lake about 50 yards in and the cemetery can be seen in a hollow to the right.
Coming from the east on Highway 6 from Nakusp, first cross the ferry and then proceed as above.
Image above courtesy of Jason Jackson
Interments
The interments for the Needles Cemetery can be
viewed as a pdf file here » interments.pdf
Additional sources of information:Last updated 2003
- BC Archives:
For more information please, contact the Cemetery Committee