Is this hallowed ground a final destination for notorious figures? We are standing before Hillview Mausoleum. It is located in the Moravian Cemetery. This cemetery is on Staten Island.
Hillview Mausoleum is more than just a burial place. It is a silent witness to the lives and legacies of those interred within. Among them lies Francesco ‘Franky Boy’ Cali. He was a Gambino family boss. Cali’s crypt is in a coveted spot on the lower level.
The extravagant Hillview Mausoleum overlooks the bay. The cost of Cali’s crypt and funeral was reportedly 45000 dollars. It was allegedly paid in cash. Cali’s ascent in the mafia world remains shrouded in mystery. He was known for his ties to the Sicilian mafia.
Nearby lies Paul Castellano. He was another former Gambino boss. Castellano was gunned down in 1985. The ambush occurred outside Sparks Steakhouse. Thomas Bilotti was also killed that night.
John Gotti plotted their deaths. He sought to take over the family. Gotti’s actions marked a violent chapter in mafia history. Thomas Bilotti was Castellano’s underboss. He was shot alongside Castellano.
Frank DeCicco is also buried in this cemetery. He was Gotti’s number two. DeCicco died in a car bomb explosion in 1986. The failed assassination attempt contributed to Gotti’s Teflon Don nickname.
Hillview Mausoleum holds secrets within its walls. It is a place where mafia figures rest. Their stories of power intrigue and violence echo through the halls. The Moravian Cemetery offers a memorial kiosk. It provides information to visiting families. The kiosk offers details about the cemetery’s history. It also contains a listing of those interred. It provides maps and guides to gravestone locations.
The burial records date back to 1873. They may include age date of death and place of death. They might list the person reporting the death and the clergyman. The records could show the date of interment. The location of burial may be included. Some records note the cause of death.
Consider the lives and legacies of those at Hillview Mausoleum. Their stories paint a vivid picture of New York’s underworld. It reminds us that even in death their impact remains.