Historic Zion Cemetery with mature tree and vintage headstones
Who We Are

Our Story

Dedicated to the respectful preservation and perpetual care of Zion Cemetery since its founding over a century ago.

Our Mission

The Zion Cemetery Fund is dedicated to the respectful preservation and perpetual maintenance of the Zion Cemetery, ensuring it remains a dignified resting place and cherished heritage site for the community of Foxwarren and the Municipality of Prairie View.

Our Vision

A beautifully maintained cemetery that honors the past while serving as a lasting symbol of community care and remembrance for future generations. We envision a heritage site that connects families with their roots and inspires continued stewardship.

Our History

Over a century of community stewardship on the Manitoba prairie

Cemetery headstones with red sandstone monument

From Prairie Settlement to Heritage Site

The story of Zion Cemetery is woven into the very fabric of the Foxwarren community. When early settlers arrived in the region during the late 1880s, establishing homesteads along the Canadian Pacific Railway, they brought with them a deep commitment to community values — including the sacred duty of caring for their departed.

By 1902, the need for a dedicated cemetery was answered with the establishment of the Zion Cemetery on Provincial Road 475, west of the growing settlement. The land was chosen for its peaceful, elevated position overlooking the surrounding prairie farmland — a fitting eternal home for the pioneers who had shaped the landscape.

Through more than 120 years of Manitoba's changing seasons, the Zion Cemetery Fund has faithfully carried forward the original promise of perpetual care, ensuring that each generation maintains the sacred trust placed in their hands.

Key Milestones

1889
Foxwarren established as a stop on the Canadian Pacific Railway in southwestern Manitoba.
1902
Zion Cemetery officially established on Provincial Road 475, west of Foxwarren, to serve the growing community.
1912
The Village of Foxwarren is incorporated, strengthening community institutions including cemetery care.
1967
Foxwarren becomes part of the Rural Municipality of Birtle, with cemetery stewardship continuing under local governance.
2015
Formation of the Municipality of Prairie View through amalgamation, reaffirming regional commitment to heritage preservation.
Present
The Zion Cemetery Fund continues its mission of perpetual care, maintaining the grounds and preserving this irreplaceable heritage site for future generations.

Our Core Values

The principles that guide our stewardship

Dignity & Respect

We approach every aspect of cemetery care with the utmost reverence, honoring the memory of those laid to rest and the families who entrust us with their care.

Community Stewardship

Cemetery care is a collective responsibility. We work collaboratively with community members, the Municipality of Prairie View, and heritage organizations to fulfill our mandate.

Heritage Preservation

Every headstone, every inscription, and every record tells a story. We are committed to preserving these irreplaceable artifacts of our community's history for future generations.

Transparency & Accountability

As a registered charity with the Canada Revenue Agency, we maintain full transparency in our operations and finances, ensuring every resource is directed toward our mission of perpetual care.

Organization Information

Legal Name Zion Cemetery Fund
CRA Registration 879588911RR0001
Organization Type Private Foundation
Location Provincial Road 475 (BOX 24), West of Foxwarren, MB R0J 0R0
Region Municipality of Prairie View, Manitoba
Established 1902

Be Part of Our Story

Join the community of volunteers who help maintain this cherished heritage site for future generations.

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