Everything Comes to an End
I’ve always believed that the places I visit carry a certain kind of energy. What “it” is, I can’t quite define — but it always leaves an imprint on my mind. History may decay and crumble, but memories linger, and sometimes, they can be felt in the air.
When Rob first began exploring the area with the owner, finding the cemetery was high on their bucket list. The dense vegetation grows at an almost science fiction-like pace, making it a constant challenge to clear and uncover areas of interest. But their persistence paid off — in his second year of tours, Rob, along with Jeff, finally discovered the cemetery and spent two days carefully brushing it out.
I’ve received many questions about the condition of this site among the ruins. It’s not neglected, as some might assume. Four years after its initial discovery, the Canadian Junior Rangers returned, locating the original trail Rob had cleared. They dedicated significant time and effort to cleaning up the cemetery, marking trails to prevent stepping on grave markers. Their work is a testament to preserving the memory of the soldiers who gave their lives during WWI.
Anyox’s graveyard was something I wasn’t prepared for. When we reached the secluded clearing, I stood in silence, taking in the sight before me. Moss-covered mounds stretched between the trees — the unmarked and weathered resting places of more than 300 souls who once called this place home.
Not every grave had a marker, but those that endured the passage of time stood out as some of the most hauntingly beautiful remnants of Anyox.
During World War I, Anyox sent 400 men to the battlefield; 25–30 never returned, and another 100 were wounded. Those who fell were honored with one of the most striking memorials I’ve ever seen — a concrete WWI Canadian helmet, now blanketed in moss, standing as a solemn tribute.
There was a quiet, peaceful energy in the air as sunlight filtered through the trees — as if the forest itself was whispering, urging us not to leave without hearing its story.