The 'Restin’ In' caches are a series that will take you to local cemeteries and places of great historical interest. From pioneers to modern people, these lovely places are full of interesting information. Please take your time – walk around, visit with the past. As with any cache placed in a cemetery, please respect the eternally resting residents and surroundings. To get this cache, you will not need to pass over any graves.
From the signage posted at the site, by the Ontario Heritage Foundation:
"One of the earliest Free Methodist societies in Canada was established in this area at nearby Ellesmere in 1874... Within six years another congregation had been established here at Armadale with initial services being held in the home of Silas Phoenix. The growth of the congregation led to the construction of this simple frame church in 1880. Built chiefly by volunteer labour on land acquired from Francis Underwood, this building, the oldest continuing Free Methodist place of worship in Canada, henceforth served the combined Ellesmere-Armadale congregation and stands as a tribute to the efforts of the early Free Methodists."
Many of Armadale and Markham's founders, including the land donor, are buried in this cemetery. Please take your time and pay your respects to them, and have a look around the property, as this is the last standing proof of the bustling town that was once Armadale.