Return to BC Penitentiary Cemetery & Mr. Thompson... (Convict Interred at Boot Hill)

Hello Friends!

The B.C. Penitentiary cemetery, known as Boot Hill by the inmates of the institution, came into existence in 1913 yet may have been used as early as 1912. The last unclaimed body of a convict from the "Pen" was interred in 1968. It's situated across the Glenbrook Ravine and up the hill, across from where the old prison once stood.
For more information, please check out our 2013 Blog of Boot Hill.

At the end of March, it felt the time had come to revisit the forgotten cemetery, and with the good weather finally upon us, it was perfect timing. Boot Hill is now accessible by a cemented foot path due to new construction nearby. A hi-rise has been built directly across from it (to the south), and soon another one is going up to the west. This has me wondering if its neighbours are experiencing an influx of paranormal activity.

Boot Hill Cemetery - looking north towards the Ravine below. Photo-VSPI©

Happy Holidays!

Dear friends,

The holidays are at our door. Walking around the city on rainy evenings, the lights are warm and inviting. I spent an evening out in Gastown, one of Vancouver's oldest neighbourhoods, with friends in celebration for a colleague's retirement. As the rain fell on the cobblestone streets, and people were rushing home from a busy work day, I looked back upon the Harbour Centre and it's observation deck. What a beautiful sight! It was lit up in red, like a tree. Magical. I truly felt that joyous feeling of the season. Vancouver, a city of adventure among new and old buildings, green parks, interesting shops and friendly people. If it was snowing, it would be a miraculous sight.. but never-the-less, the rain does not spoil the feeling. I quite enjoy those evenings where everything sparkles because of our rainy season.

I will be travelling south to my home in Sebastopol, California for the holidays and into the first weeks of the New Year. There will be plenty of adventures, cemeteries to visit and places to discover. I'll keep in touch via Facebook, blog and our website with photos and stories.

The gang at VSPI wishes you and your family a wonderful Holiday Season! May all your dreams come true! Make it one of warmth and love, kindness and compassion. Remember, not everyone is happy during the season, so reach out to friends who may be alone. Share with them what most take for granted. We are blessed to live in this part of the world. Let's give to those who don't have much. A friend passed on a package of women's hygiene products to a shelter in the city. Their eyes lit up and they were so thankful. If we all gave, it would be a much safer and brighter world. Think on it. There are so many programs where we can give to others, for we truly are blessed.

Be safe, don't drink and drive, and remember, when celebrating your ancestors and loved ones who have passed on before you may be in visitation. Keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

Let us know how you'll be celebrating the holidays by commenting here, on our Facebook page or sending us an email. We'd love to hear from you! And share with us your story.

As I like to say, "Jing-a-Ling"!
Enjoy,
Kati