New project aims to bring history of Tyrone cemeteries to life

A UNIQUE new heritage initiative is set to shine a light on some of Tyrone’s oldest and most storied graveyards, unlocking their secrets and reconnecting local people with generations past.

Unlocking Silent Heritage (USH) is a cross-community project launched in partnership between PEACEPLUS and Derry City and Strabane District Council, with the goal of uncovering valuable local knowledge and bringing the history of six historic cemeteries to life.

Four of these are located in the wider Strabane district: Urney, near Strabane; Corrick, in the Plumbridge area; Pubble, outside Newtownstewart; and Scarvagherin, near Castlederg.

These graveyards – many of which are little-known beyond their immediate communities – hold a wealth of untold stories. Through guided tours, genealogy workshops and hands-on research, the project aims to make these sacred spaces places of shared learning and connection.

Derry City Cemetery and Strabane Cemetery will also feature as part of the site tour and engagement programme.

Running until March 2027, the initiative is designed to complement a wider council-led capital project to improve awareness of, and access to, these historic sites. The focus is on using local heritage to foster cross-community dialogue and provide opportunities for skills development, family research, and education.

USH is coordinated by Creggan Enterprises, working in partnership with Friends of Derry City Cemetery, Guildhall Press, and Hive Studios. The project is funded through the council’s PEACEPLUS Local Co-Designed Action Plan under the Community Regeneration and Transformation theme.