Gilby Cemetery (Lacombe County)

Gilby Cemetery, originally known as Kalmu Cemetery, was founded in June 1914 by members of the Estonian community. The cemetery was established on land donated by John Turner, and the Kalmu Cemetery Company was formed to manage the site. The name “Kalmu” means “resting place” in Estonian, reflecting the community’s desire for a peaceful final resting place. The cemetery was designed with specific guidelines, including mounded graves, crosses, and a tidy appearance1

As the community around Gilby Cemetery grew, so did the infrastructure. The cemetery became a central hub for the Estonian community, with many pioneers choosing to be buried there. The cemetery was maintained by volunteers, who held annual clean-up events and erected a fence, new gates, and a large sign. The cemetery’s treasurer received a salary and additional compensation for each plot, ensuring the site’s upkeep.

Today, Gilby Cemetery continues to serve as a place of reflection and remembrance for the community. Visitors can explore the well-preserved gravestones, each telling a unique story of the lives that once shaped the region. The cemetery also serves as a gathering place for historical events and genealogical research, attracting visitors from near and far who are interested in uncovering their family histories.