Description of Historic Place

The Thompson Family Rest Site is a small, simply fenced burial plot containing a granite monument and one headstone on a site surrounded by mature trees at the corner of cross streets in Shoal Lake. The municipal designation applies to the gravemarkers and the approximately 675-square-metre parcel of land.

Heritage Value

The Thompson Family Rest Site, situated on a portion of the former Thompson homestead, recognizes the contributions of Matthew W. Thompson to the community of Shoal Lake and marks the final resting place of several members of the Thompson family. Arriving in the area in 1881, Thompson became the first postmaster, built Thompson Hall, which served various commercial and community functions, donated part of his homestead for the establishment of a rail line, and sold other portions of his property for local business and residential development. For these contributions, along with his dedication and spirit, he became known as the 'Father of Shoal Lake'. Matthew and his wife Carrie later moved to the United States for health reasons, but 10 other members of the prominent family are buried at this site.

Source: Village of Shoal Lake By-law No. 14-88, November 22, 1988

Character-Defining Elements

Key elements that define the locational character of the Thompson Family Rest Site include:
- its situation on a portion of the former Thompson homestead at what is now the southwest corner of Elizabeth Street (named for one of Matthew W. Thompson's daughters) and Highway 42 in Shoal Lake
- its protected and secluded nature, with only modest low-density development nearby, surrounded by mature trees and with a short access path

Key elements that define the site's physical and commemorative character include:
- the rough-cut granite monument and brass plaque displaying the names and dates of the family members interred in the plot
- the exclusive use of the site by the descendants and relatives of Matthew W. Thompson
- the stone grave marker for Hannah Richards, a relative of Matthew W. Thompson