Chevra Kadisha Erlton Street Cemetery (Calgary)

This cemetery is a significant landmark in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Located at the northeast corner of Highway 22X and 37 Street S.W and final home to over 3,000 deceased, it is a place of remembrance and reflection for the Jewish community. The cemetery is not just a place for mourning; it is also a place where one can trace the history of the Jewish community in Calgary, from the early settlers to the present generation.

The cemetery is owned and managed by the Calgary Chevra Kadisha, an organization that prepares all Jewish burials in Calgary. The Chevra Kadisha, which translates to “holy society,” is a group of Jewish men and women who ensure that the bodies of Jews are prepared for burial according to Jewish tradition. The cemetery is well-maintained and is open for visitation Sunday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. For security reasons and to maintain the sanctity of the place, visitors are asked to identify themselves and the family member they are visiting. The cemetery’s location offers a serene environment for visitors. Despite being in the city, it provides a sense of tranquility and peace. The well-kept grounds and orderly arrangement of tombstones provide a respectful and dignified final resting place.

In addition to its role as a cemetery, the Jewish Chevra Kadisha Cemetery is also a place for community gatherings. The Memorial Chapel located at 1702-17th Avenue, S.W. in Calgary, serves as a venue for memorial services and other religious ceremonies.