The aim of the Friends of Bedford Cemetery (FOBC) is to promote the environmental, cultural and historical benefits of the Victorian Cemetery and Chapel at Foster Hill Road. One specific objective is to encourage schools to make use of all this unique heritage site offers.
A huge variety of people from Victorian Bedford (and later) are buried here, some of whom were significant in influencing the working practice of their profession. These include the Pioneering Women of Bedford whose memorials we have recently marked with special plaques.
There are 100,000 graves and 50,000 memorials and gravestones, including a number of military memorials relating to WW1 & WW2, and smaller campaigns and hostilities.
The cemetery is a fascinating place to explore. Part of the grounds is a designated County Wildlife Site containing rare species of plant, including orchids and lichens. Throughout the year, many varieties of birds, butterflies and other creatures make use of the undisturbed setting. It is also an Arboretum and contains old and unusual trees.
Working with other cultural providers FOBC could support schools in providing a wide range of educational and cultural activities (curriculum appropriate); assisted research, history tours, arts & crafts to name a few.
Recent Projects:
Pioneering Women of Bedford: 2018 saw the centenary of some women being given the vote and there were many national initiatives to highlight the achievements of women.
There are some remarkable women that buried in the Cemetery and they were included them in a themed guided walk. This link gives brief outlines of their achievements.
Campaign for the Protection of Rural England award.
The Richard Wildman Memorial Award for Schools (a new initiative, more information will be provided in due course).