Historical Walking Tours

Doors Open Gatehouse Tour

The Cemetery Gatehouse Tour at Hamilton Cemetery is a unique and educational experience that allows visitors to explore the inside of the Cemetery Gatehouse. During the tour, participants will learn about the unique history and architecture, and important role the Gatehouse played in the cemetery's operations. Built between 1855 -1862, a designated Historical Site, the Gatehouse holds the records of the first burial in 1850. The Doors Open Gatehouse Tour includes an exclusive look into the Cemetery Vault, historical records and maps.

The tour guides will provide in-depth information about the design and construction of the Gatehouse, including their architectural styles, materials used, and the craftsmen who created them. Visitors will also learn about the various functions of the Gatehouses, such as providing security, directing visitors to specific sections of the cemetery and being the home of the Cemetery Caretaker.

War of 1812 Tour – Battlefield

The War of 1812 Tour at Hamilton Cemetery is a unique and educational experience that explores the history of the War of 1812 and its impact on the city of Hamilton, Ontario. During the tour, participants will visit significant sites within the cemetery grounds that played an important role in the War of 1812.

An in-depth look at the causes, events, and consequences of the War of 1812, as well as its significance to the history of Canada and the United States. Visitors will hear about the battles and skirmishes that took place in the Hamilton area, and learn about the sacrifices and contributions of local soldiers and civilians.

Garden Tour – Spring

The Spring Garden Tour at Hamilton Cemetery is a unique and peaceful experience that allows visitors to explore the cemetery's beautifully maintained grounds and gardens. During the tour, participants will have the opportunity to learn about the various flora and fauna within the cemetery, as well as the history and significance of the gardens themselves. Spring bulbs and early planting plans will be shared.

Led by our Cemetery Gardner, the tour will provide an in-depth look at the different styles and types of gardens within the cemetery, including formal and informal gardens, as well as specialty gardens such as memorial and commemorative gardens. The Garden Tour will also include information about significant burials surrounding the gardens.

George Hamilton Day Tour

The George Hamilton Tour at Hamilton Cemetery is a unique opportunity to learn about the life and legacy of one of Hamilton's most notable historical figures. During the tour, participants will visit the gravesite of George Hamilton, the founder of the city of Hamilton, and learn about his contributions to the growth and development of the community.

The tour provides an in-depth look at George Hamilton's life and accomplishments, including his role in the War of 1812, his business ventures, and his impact on the city of Hamilton. Participants will also hear about the challenges and obstacles that Hamilton faced during his lifetime, and learn about his legacy and the lasting impact he has had on the city. The tour will also include prominent Hamiltonians buried at Hamilton Cemetery.

Ambitious City Tours

The Ambitious City Tour at Hamilton Cemetery is a unique and immersive experience that explores the history and cultural heritage of Hamilton, Ontario. The tour takes visitors on a journey through the cemetery, visiting the graves of some of the city's most influential and innovative residents.

An in-depth look at the individuals who helped shape Hamilton into the ambitious city it is today. Visitors will learn about the innovative and entrepreneurial spirit of the city's founders, and hear stories about the individuals who made significant contributions to the fields of business, politics, science, and culture.

Naval Tour

The Naval Tour at Hamilton Cemetery is a unique opportunity to learn about the history of some major naval disasters throughout history. During the tour, participants will visit the gravesites of people who were causalities in these disasters. These disasters were either a result of war time sinking or human error and learn of the background behind them.

Garden Tour – Fall

The Fall Garden Tour at Hamilton Cemetery is a unique and peaceful experience that allows visitors to explore the cemetery's beautifully maintained grounds and gardens and explore the colours of Fall. During the tour, participants will have the opportunity to learn about the various flora and fauna within the cemetery, as well as the history and significance of the gardens themselves.

Led by our Cemetery Gardner, the tour will provide an in-depth look at the different styles and types of gardens within the cemetery, including formal and informal gardens, as well as specialty gardens such as memorial and commemorative gardens.

Cemeteries are sacred places where the dead are laid to rest with dignity; therefore, visitors are expected to behave respectfully. Use the following as a guide when visiting any of our cemeteries.

• Hamilton Municipal Cemeteries are open to visitors between 8:00am and sundown.  Our cemeteries are closed after dark. Please Observe all posted rules.
• Keep noise to a minimum.  Most people that you will encounter on cemetery grounds are mourning the death of a loved one. If you see a funeral or other service in progress, please be respectful and give them their space
• Whenever possible, stay on the roadway. Be aware of your surroundings and watch for vehicles. To the best of your ability, avoid walking on the graves.
• Pets must be leashed and accompanied by the owner. Keep your pet under control and clean up after it. Do not allow your pet to roam over graves; rather, keep on the roadway.
• Do not litter. This includes cigarette butts. Take away any trash that you bring with you or deposit in the garbage receptacles placed on the grounds.
• Do not interfere with the plants or wildlife that inhabits the cemetery. Do not pick or damage flowers on cemetery grounds or adorning a grave.  It is greatly upsetting for families to visit the grave and find flowers picked up or damaged.
• Do not touch or climb on monuments, as many of them are very old. Do not take rubbings of any monument without getting permission from the Hamilton Municipal Cemeteries to do so. Many stones are fragile and should not be touched.

Cemeteries are wonderful park like settings. Enjoy a casual walk, enjoy the natural beauty of the plants, trees and landscape and explore the history.