The United Hebrew Cemetery on Staten Island holds a significant place in the history of the borough and the Jewish community of New York City. Established in the late 19th century, it serves as a resting place for thousands and offers a poignant glimpse into the lives and legacies of generations past. This guide explores the cemetery’s history, its significance, and answers frequently asked questions about visiting and finding information about those buried there.
What is the history of the United Hebrew Cemetery Staten Island?
The United Hebrew Cemetery was founded to address the growing need for a dedicated Jewish burial ground on Staten Island. Prior to its establishment, Staten Island's Jewish community, while smaller than those in Manhattan or Brooklyn, still required a place to respectfully lay their loved ones to rest. The exact date of founding isn't readily available in easily accessible public sources, but its history stretches back well over a century, reflecting the evolution of the Jewish community on Staten Island. Records from the cemetery itself, potentially held by the relevant Jewish community organizations, would contain more definitive details. The cemetery's establishment represents a vital step in the ongoing development and consolidation of the Jewish community’s presence in Staten Island.
How do I find someone buried in the United Hebrew Cemetery, Staten Island?
Locating a specific burial plot within the United Hebrew Cemetery can require patience and potentially some detective work. While there may not be a fully digitized, searchable online database readily available to the public, a few approaches can be helpful:
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Contact the Cemetery Directly: This is the most reliable method. Contact information for the cemetery should be easily findable through online searches. They may be able to guide you towards available records or offer assistance in locating a specific grave.
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Consult Local Jewish Community Organizations: These organizations often maintain historical records or have contacts within the cemetery's administration. Their expertise could prove invaluable in your search.
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Explore Genealogy Websites: Sites dedicated to genealogy may contain records related to burials, potentially offering clues to the location of the grave within the cemetery.
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Check Historical Records: County and city records, or possibly even local historical societies, may hold additional information about the cemetery and its burials.
Remember to be prepared with as much identifying information as possible, such as the individual's full name, date of death, and any known relatives buried nearby.
What are the visiting hours for the United Hebrew Cemetery?
Visiting hours for the United Hebrew Cemetery are typically consistent with other cemeteries, generally allowing access during daylight hours. However, it's always best to confirm the specific hours and any potential restrictions by contacting the cemetery directly before your visit.
Is the United Hebrew Cemetery Staten Island open to the public?
While the United Hebrew Cemetery is primarily a burial ground, it's generally open to the public for visiting purposes, especially during daylight hours. Respectful behavior is expected during visits. Remember to be mindful of the sacred nature of the space and the grieving families who may be present.
Are there guided tours available at the United Hebrew Cemetery?
Information regarding guided tours is not readily available through standard online searches. The best approach is to contact the cemetery administration directly to inquire about the possibility of tours or guided visits. This direct contact will provide the most accurate and up-to-date information.
What is the size of the United Hebrew Cemetery Staten Island?
The exact size of the United Hebrew Cemetery isn't widely publicized online. Contacting the cemetery directly would likely yield the most accurate information.
This guide aims to provide a starting point for your research on the United Hebrew Cemetery on Staten Island. Remember that contacting the cemetery directly is crucial for obtaining the most accurate and detailed information about visiting, researching records, and respecting the sacred space it represents.
