Collection: Highland Cemetery - Great Falls
When George Murdock was buried on Prospect Hill in 1885, the Great Falls Tribune highlighted the need for a proper city cemetery. Initially, those who passed away in 1884 and early 1885 were interred on private land, as the cemetery site chosen by Paris Gibson and H.P. Rolfe during the city's planning had yet to be developed. By 1888, Highland Cemetery, originally known as Sand Coulee, was established on 240 acres owned by Gibson and Lewis, though financial constraints in the 1890s stalled its full development.
Despite its incorporation, Highland Cemetery lacked adequate fencing and maintenance. In 1890, Cascade County dedicated a section for a potter's field, and in 1896, the Catholic Church purchased 12 acres for Calvary Cemetery. By 1906, residents demanded a more accessible, city-owned cemetery. They proposed a central site near 30th and 36th Streets, but Gibson objected, foreseeing that area as the city's future heart. Highland remained where urban expansion was least likel
Despite its incorporation, Highland Cemetery lacked adequate fencing and maintenance. In 1890, Cascade County dedicated a section for a potter's field, and in 1896, the Catholic Church purchased 12 acres for Calvary Cemetery. By 1906, residents demanded a more accessible, city-owned cemetery. They proposed a central site near 30th and 36th Streets, but Gibson objected, foreseeing that area as the city's future heart. Highland remained where urban expansion was least likel
Ask about availability at this cemetery
Tell us what you’re looking for and we’ll reach out with next steps.
Have a gravesite to sell?
Join Eturnal Rest and list your available grave or niche so others searching this cemetery can find it.