Tomb of John and Jemima Howard Obelisk

Enshrouded in the tranquil embrace of High Park stands the Tomb of John and Jemima Howard Obelisk, a poignant testament to a love story interwoven with the very fabric of Toronto’s history. The Tomb of John and Jemima Howard Obelisk, a stately obelisk crafted from stone and marble, bears a poignant inscription: “Sacred. To the memory of John George Howard and Jemima Frances his wife. Jemima Frances, Born 18th August 1802: died 1st September 1877;aged 75 years & 14 days. John George, born 27th July 1803: died February 3, 1890;aged 86 years, 6 months & 7 days.” John George Howard, a prominent architect, engineer, and surveyor, and his beloved wife, Jemima Frances Meikle, left an indelible mark on this city. Their legacy extends beyond this monument, encompassing the very parkland that surrounds us. In 1836, the Howards purchased 165 acres of land stretching from the shores of Lake Ontario to Bloor Street, christening it “High Park” for its elevated vantage point. They built their home, Colborne Lodge, a charming Regency-style cottage, overlooking the sprawling landscape. Jemima, a Scotswoman who married John in 1827, shared his vision for this verdant haven. She tragically passed away in 1877, her final days spent gazing upon the very spot where the Tomb of John and Jemima Howard Obelisk now stands. John, heartbroken yet resolute, ensured her memory would forever be etched in the heart of High Park. He designed the monument himself, incorporating wrought iron from St. Paul’s Cathedral in London, a nod to their shared English heritage. The fence surrounding the Tomb of John and Jemima Howard Obelisk, salvaged from a shipwreck in the St. Lawrence River during its journey from England, speaks to John’s unwavering dedication. He lived on at Colborne Lodge until 1890, his love for Jemima and High Park unwavering. Upon his death, he joined his wife beneath the obelisk, their final resting place a testament to their enduring bond and the gift they bestowed upon Toronto. The Howards’ generosity extended beyond the park’s boundaries. John, a multifaceted individual, served as Toronto’s official surveyor, shaping the city’s infrastructure, including the Esplanade and Toronto Island. He also designed numerous public, commercial, and residential buildings, leaving an architectural imprint that can still be seen today. The Tomb of John and Jemima Howard Obelisk serves not just as a memorial but as a gateway to a bygone era, a reminder of the couple who shaped Toronto’s landscape and left a legacy for generations to cherish.