Stamford Presbyterian Church

Stamford Presbyterian Church has a long history in Niagara Falls. The church and its cemetery date back to the late 1700s, making them valued landmarks in the community.

Location and history

• Location: 3121 St. Paul Avenue
• Size: The cemetery covers 2 acres
• Genealogy records: Visit our Genealogy and Family Search page for burial information

Established in 1784, the cemetery was once known as "God’s Half Acre." In 1791, the Presbyterian Meeting House was built on the same site where the church stands today. Many of Stamford’s earliest settlers were buried here, and over the years, the cemetery expanded to its current size.

In 1943, the Township of Stamford took over management of the cemetery. When the township merged with the City of Niagara Falls in 1963, responsibility for the cemetery transferred to the city.

Unfortunately, records from the first burial no longer exist, as they were likely lost in a fire in the early 1900s. The earliest known burial took place in 1784. Janet Mulwain, the mother of Thomas McMicking, one of the congregation’s founders, was laid to rest here.

The Niagara Falls Library holds historical resources on Stamford Village and its pioneers.