Here lies a chronicle etched in stone. This is the Edmonton Federation Cemetery. It is a place where stories rest beneath the soil. The Edmonton Federation Cemetery was established thanks to Lord Samuel Montagu. He donated a strip of his family land for this sacred purpose.
In 1889, the Burial Society of the Federation of Synagogues was created. A year later it was formally established. This hallowed ground holds nearly 40,000 graves. Today it stands at 98% capacity.
The Edmonton Federation Cemetery is the final resting place of notable figures. Lord Montagu himself rests here. Two Sassover Rebbes are buried in Edmonton. Rav Eliezer Gordon also known as the ‘Telzer Rav’ lies here. Rav Reuven Dov Dessler the father of R’Eliyahu Dessler is interred here. Dayan Gershon Lopian also rests in this cemetery.
The Jewish community expanded after World War II. New Federation congregations appeared across London. By 1937, the Federation had 13000 members. There were 68 affiliated synagogues across London.
A second Federation cemetery became necessary. In 1936, land was purchased in Rainham, Essex. It comprises 106 acres. It was consecrated in February 1938. Rainham Cemetery has a capacity for 45-50000 graves. Currently it is at 60% capacity. The Federation recently opened a new cemetery on Edgwarebury Lane in Edgware. It will service the nearby communities. These include North West London, Edgware, and Borehamwood.
Within the Edmonton Federation Cemetery rest individuals named Aaronberg, Ackerman and Arbus. Bendel and Bernstein found their final place. Bierman and Bloom and Boborozoosky are buried here too. Brickman and Cohen rest side by side. Dagul and Davidson are also listed. Doff and Eleazer Leber b Haim are here too. Etgart and Fierstone also found their final resting place here. Fiertag and Finkle and Finsberg lie here. Fishnofsky and Gershon have their graves within these grounds.
Consider the lives represented by each marker in Edmonton Federation Cemetery. Each stone whispers of families, faith, and community. It is a place of respect. It is a testament to lives lived.