Gazing upon the now-demolished Eltingville Lutheran Church, one can almost hear the echoes of its vibrant past. Eltingville Lutheran Church once stood proudly on Genesee Avenue, a testament to the community it served. The church was a cornerstone of the Scandinavian community in Eltingville, particularly for the Norwegians. Many of the original members shared common surnames like Hansen, Johnson, Erickson, and Swanson. These names were so prevalent that nicknames became necessary to distinguish families, leading to monikers like “delicatessen Hansen” or “fish Hansen.” Henry W. Erickson, one of the church’s founding members and its builder, was a prominent figure in this close-knit community. He also built many of the older homes in Eltingville. The church itself was more than just a place of worship. It served as a vital support system for the Scandinavian immigrants who had made Eltingville their home. Zion Lutheran Church, another Staten Island church, played a role in Eltingville’s religious history as well. From 1918 to 1921, Zion sponsored a Sunday school in Eltingville. This initiative eventually led to the establishment of the Eltingville Lutheran Church. The church building, sadly demolished, stood as a silent reminder of the rich history it held within its walls.
Gould Family Mausoleum
Ever heard of a “Robber Baron?” Here at Woodlawn Cemetery stands the Gould Family Mausoleum. It is a testament to