At the Council meeting held on October 2, 2023, Whitby Town Council approved the Groveside Cemetery Board (the Board) recommendation to change the name of the Pioneer Baptist Cemetery to the Dryden Cemetery, subject to public feedback. The cemetery is located near the intersection of Columbus Road East and Garrard Road and was first opened in 1837.

The Board’s proposed name change to Dryden Cemetery reflects the history of the area and pays homage to the Dryden family for their contributions to the cemetery and community. The recommended new name also supports inclusivity: the cemetery may be the final resting place for all. 

Have Your Say

Have a concern about the proposed name change? Visit connectwhitby.ca/cemetery by Friday, August 9 to leave your comment. If no written objection is received, the Town will proceed with the name change through the Bereavement Authority of Ontario.

More Information

For more information regarding the name change, contact Victoria McManus at treasury@whitby.ca or 905.444.1952.