Woodtown Cemetery

Beneath the tranquil canopy of trees at Woodtown Cemetery, a unique story unfolds. Woodtown Cemetery isn’t just a place of rest. It’s a testament to the resilience and spirit of Dublin’s Progressive Jewish community. Founded in 1952, Woodtown Cemetery holds a special place in Dublin’s history. Its creation stemmed from a struggle for acceptance and recognition within the larger Jewish community. Larry Elyan, a key figure in the Progressive Jewish community, challenged the Orthodox burial society’s refusal to allow burials of Progressive Jews in Dolphin’s Barn. This act of defiance led to the establishment of Woodtown Cemetery, a peaceful sanctuary nestled in the foothills of the Dublin Mountains. Many individuals laid to rest at Woodtown Cemetery were refugees who had escaped the horrors of the Holocaust. Among them are Dr. Marianne Neuman and Dr. Ernst Scheyer. Their stories are reminders of the strength and perseverance of those who sought refuge in Dublin. Dr. Neuman, a dedicated physician and community leader, was a prominent member of the Dublin Jewish Progressive Congregation. Dr. Scheyer, a lawyer and educator, found solace and purpose in Dublin after enduring imprisonment in Sachsenhausen concentration camp. The cemetery grounds offer panoramic views of Dublin Bay and Howth Head. The entrance gates stand as a memorial to Richard Hitchman, another prominent figure in the community. A small, unassuming prayer house sits within the cemetery walls, a place for quiet reflection and remembrance. On its outer wall, a plaque commemorates the victims of the Holocaust, a solemn tribute to those who perished. Woodtown Cemetery, a place of serenity and remembrance, reflects the vibrant history and enduring legacy of Dublin’s Progressive Jewish community.