Brooklyn is a borough known for its vibrant neighborhoods, cultural diversity and deep historical roots. Among its most serene and storied spaces are its historic cemeteries—final resting places that tell the tale of centuries of life, loss and legacy in New York City.
From the rolling hills of Green-Wood to the sacred grounds of the Dutch Reformed Church, these burial sites preserve the memories of everyone from Revolutionary War soldiers to prominent artists, immigrants and everyday New Yorkers.
Here's a look at six of Brooklyn’s most historic cemeteries:
1. Green-Wood Cemetery
Green-Wood is one of the first rural cemeteries in America. Founded in 1838 and spanning over 478 acres, the cemetery located in Greenwood Heights is famous for its dramatic hills, glacial ponds and Victorian architecture. A National Historic Landmark, it’s also the resting place of famous figures like composer Leonard Bernstein and artist Jean-Michel Basquiat.
2. The Evergreens Cemetery
Established in 1849, The Evergreens sits on the border of Brooklyn and Queens. This non-denominational cemetery on the eastern end of Bushwick covers 225 acres and is known for its pastoral beauty and Civil War-era graves. It also serves as a memorial ground for many immigrants and working-class New Yorkers.
3. Holy Cross Cemetery
The Holy Cross Cemetery in East Flatbush, founded in 1849, is one of the largest Catholic burial grounds in the borough and features an array of religious monuments and statues. Notable burials include mobsters, bishops and influential members of Brooklyn’s Catholic community.
4. Cypress Hills Cemetery
Cypress Hills Cemetery, founded in 1848, is a sprawling cemetery straddling Brooklyn and Queens. It includes the Cypress Hills National Cemetery, designated for U.S. veterans, including those from the Civil War and Spanish-American War. Its elevated terrain offers rare views of the Manhattan skyline.
5. Flatbush Dutch Reformed Church Cemetery
The Flatbush Dutch Reformed Church Cemetery was established in 1654 and is one of the oldest in New York City. It surrounds the historic Flatbush Reformed Church and holds the remains of early Dutch settlers and Revolutionary War veterans. It's a hidden gem that connects modern Brooklyn to its colonial past.
6. Washington Cemetery
Washington Cemetery is a large Jewish burial ground located in the Mapleton/Midwood area. It became a primary cemetery for Brooklyn’s Jewish community in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Its winding paths and ornate gravestones reflect the community’s cultural and spiritual heritage.
Brooklyn’s cemeteries are more than burial grounds they're sacred spaces that capture the stories of generations. These historic sites have a lot to offer on the lives of those who came before us and the ever-evolving identity of Brooklyn.
