The old cemetery at the top of Murray Street in Gawler, once known as Pioneer Place, has not been used since 1870.
In his report in 1927, Mayor DC Connor, reflecting on 70 years of Council Corporation, said:
“A good story could be told about the old cemetery. Recreation being demanded, the Council sought to utilise the old cemetery for that purpose and also construct a band rotunda. Everything promised well and headstones were removed, but one family turned up who objected to gaiety o’er the resting place of their loved one and their pertinacity led the Council into legal action, with heavy costs; and the old cemetery was left severely alone for many years - a wild and desolate region that sheltered the bones of the pioneers. It is only comparatively late years that a touch of garden effort has lightened and brightened the surroundings.”
In July, 1933 the old graveyard was dedicated as parkland, but still remained neglected for several years. It is worth taking time to view the monument listing those buried at this site - a significant number being very young and a reminder of how fragile life was, just 150 years ago.
The park has been continually upgraded over the years, with significant support of the local service clubs. It has become a hub for community fêtes, band competitions, church, remembrance and other functions, so you can expect a few muggles to frequent the area.