What if these weathered stones could talk? Old Gravesend Cemetery holds secrets of Brooklyn’s past. This 1.6-acre cemetery is one of the city’s smallest. Yet, it holds stories of early settlers and Revolutionary War heroes.
Old Gravesend Cemetery dates back to at least 1658. Some say it began as early as 1650. Gravestone inscriptions appear in both English and Dutch. This reflects the area’s diverse colonial history. The cemetery is a reminder of Gravesend’s Dutch colonial town.
Here lie the remains of Revolutionary War veterans. Rem Williamson, Rutgert Van Brunt, and Joost Stillwell rest here. They served as leaders in the Gravesend militia. Lady Deborah Moody, founder of Gravesend, may also be buried here. However, her exact grave remains unknown.
Look for the Van Sicklen family plot in the northwest corner. It is fenced off from the rest of Old Gravesend Cemetery. The Van Sicklen family maintained their own burial ground. Their iron gateway arch proudly displays the family name.
Old Gravesend Cemetery has faced neglect over the years. In 1932, it was described as “deplorable”. Gravestones were fallen or broken. Trash littered the grounds. Horses even grazed among the graves.
Thankfully, restoration efforts have been made. The Gravesend Historical Society and NYC Parks have worked to preserve this historic site. Experts from Brooklyn’s Green-Wood Cemetery helped reset and clean gravestones.
Consider the story of Jacobus Ryder and his young son, Barnardus. They died within ten days of each other in 1814. Initially, people assumed they succumbed to the same illness. But the truth was much darker. Jacobus, in a fit of madness, killed his son. He believed he heard a voice commanding him to do it. Jacobus died soon after. Their adjacent stones serve as a stark reminder of a family tragedy.
Today, Old Gravesend Cemetery stands as a landmark. It became a New York City landmark in 1976. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. The cemetery represents early town planning and Brooklyn’s early settlers. Although the cemetery is currently closed, restoration continues. The goal is to reopen it for tours.
Take a moment to appreciate Old Gravesend Cemetery. Remember the lives and stories buried within. Think about the challenges and triumphs of those who came before us. May they rest in peace.