Kirkyard

A kirkyard is a term used in Scotland and parts of Northern England to refer to a churchyard, the burial ground surrounding a church. The word itself is derived from the Scottish Gaelic word "cill," meaning church, and "yard," meaning an enclosed space. Historically, kirkyards served as the primary place of burial for a local parish. They often contained not only the graves of parishioners but also monuments, mausoleums, and sometimes the ruins of older church structures.

The layout and upkeep of kirkyards have varied over time and by region. Traditionally, they were managed by the church itself, with elders or churchwardens overseeing their maintenance and the allocation of burial plots. In some cases, kirkyards were also used for community gatherings or as a place for reflection. The older sections of kirkyards often feature a dense collection of gravestones, some dating back centuries, displaying a range of epitaphs and sculptural styles that offer insights into past lives and local history.

While many kirkyards continue to be active burial sites, the term is also often used to describe historically significant churchyards that may no longer be in active use for interments but are preserved for their heritage value. They are important repositories of local history, genealogy, and architectural heritage, drawing interest from historians, genealogists, and those seeking to connect with the past.