Sites of Grave Meaning: The Heritage of Human Remains on the Rideau Canal

Human remains from laborers who built the Rideau Canal contribute significantly to its heritage value, yet these cemeteries are excluded from official narratives due to historical gaps and policy limitations. This study challenges such omissions by demonstrating that the bodies of canal laborers enrich both tangible and intangible cultural heritage, advocating for a new discourse that recognizes their role in local communities. The research relies on community expertise and archaeological insights, particularly from Ken Watson, Neil Patterson, and Sue Warren, to address misconceptions about 'unmarked' cemeteries. It underscores the need for policy adjustments to acknowledge human remains as part of heritage preservation.

Gray, C. Sites of Grave Meaning: The Heritage of Human Remains on the Rideau Canal. https://doi.org/10.22215/etd/2018-13290