Deep within the heart of Hamburg, New York, lies Saints Peter and Paul Cemetery. It’s a place where stories whisper from weathered stones. These stories tell tales of early Hamburg residents. Saints Peter and Paul Cemetery began humbly in 1875. Reverend Vincenz Scheffels purchased four acres of land for $600. This was a departure from the old German custom of burying parishioners around the church. The cemetery expanded in 1929. Msgr. Anthony Veit acquired eight more acres. This growth ensured that the cemetery could continue to serve the community. The cemetery holds several beloved priests. Among them are Rev. Scheffels, Rev. Bornefeld, Msgr. Veit, and Msgr. Anton LaRusch. Their presence adds a layer of reverence to the grounds. Saints Peter and Paul Cemetery also houses unique artifacts. Two antique limestone statues grace the grounds. One depicts St. Peter and the other the Blessed Virgin Mary. These statues originally adorned Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Buffalo. Msgr. Green brought them to Hamburg, adding a touch of history to Saints Peter and Paul Cemetery. The statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary stands in a peaceful, wooded area. Nearby, a marble receptacle for cremains provides a modern option for remembrance. The cemetery’s history is etched not just on its stones, but also in its very layout. Visitors will notice gravestones from before 1875. These were moved from the old churchyard when the new cemetery was established. This act of transfer demonstrates the community’s respect for its past. It also physically links the old and new burial grounds. Saints Peter and Paul Cemetery is more than a final resting place. It is a living chronicle of Hamburg’s history.
Gould Family Mausoleum
Ever heard of a “Robber Baron?” Here at Woodlawn Cemetery stands the Gould Family Mausoleum. It is a testament to