The Beaverdams Church 1832
Text from the plaque
Early in the 1790's a group of settlers in this area had been converted to Methodism and formed a Class which, in 1795, was included in the newly-established Niagara Circuit. Services were held in the home of a prominent local settler, Israel Swayze, and camp meetings took place on his property. This church, one of the oldest remaining Methodist chapels in the province, was built in 1832. The Reverend Egerton Ryerson, who later was principally responsible for the founding of this province's educational system, was the first minister to preach in the chapel. The building was renovated extensively in 1879 but regular services were discontinued about 1890.
Transcribed from the marker, not summarised.
Find the place
The Region of Niagara
The City of Thorold
On the south side of Marlatts Road
just over the causeway from Beaverdams Road (Road 67)
Also recorded for this place: The Region of Niagara · The Region of Niagara
N 43 06.324 W 79 13.097
Recorded July 2017. Check current access before visiting.
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Visitors' notes
May 8, 2013
Hello: I am doing a genealogical search for a Matilda A. Church. I do not know her maiden name. As far as I know, that was her husband William Church's last name. I found Matilda's link to this cemetery on the OCFA Home page search. I would appreciate any information on this woman, whom I believe may be my great, great grandmother. Thank you. Dianne Ferris-Doekes
February 21, 2011
Greetings: I am also part of the Swayze Clan. I can find no Isreal Swayze with the little info I have in Canada. Can anyone tell me who are the parents of Israel Swayze that is on this plaque? Thanks. Marie Mikolich
September 6, 2009
Hello Folks: Our family is related to Israel Swayze but there is a missing link Zerumba was our great or great, great grandfather or uncle. I can find a little more info if this isn't relevant. My Email is or