New Forest Cemetery
Utica, NY
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Photographs by Alecia Pendasulo
About
Located at 2001 Oneida St, Utica, New York, 13501
Founded in 1886, New Forest Cemetery is a non-profit cemetery located in Utica, New York.
New Forest Cemetery offers Columbarium Niches, Cremains Interment, and In Ground Plot burial options. The cemetery also offers maintenance services such as stone washing, foundation repair, and perpetual care options.
History
Written by Alecia Pendaluso
Introduction
New Forest Cemetery, located in Utica, New York, has been a prominent burial ground since its establishment in 1887. Over the years, it has undergone numerous transformations, faced several challenges, and played a significant role in the community's history. Let’s explore the history, development, and ongoing challenges faced by New Forest Cemetery, drawing from various newspaper articles spanning over a century.
Early Development
The cemetery was originally established on a 37-acre parcel of land, previously known as the Copesman Farm. The founding was marked by a commitment to accessibility for all socioeconomic classes, offering lot sales at affordable prices. The early trustees, including prominent figures like Henry Ney and William C. Wilcox, emphasized the importance of creating a dignified resting place accessible to everyone in the community.
In 1887, significant infrastructure was established, including a chapel, superintendent's cottage, and a conservatory, which were built to enhance the cemetery’s functionality and aesthetic appeal. The cemetery was meticulously planned with nearly 6000 lots, 400 were quickly sold, reflecting the community's acceptance and need for such a facility.
Operational Challenges and Achievements
Thomas Mays, the first superintendent, was a pivotal figure in the cemetery's history, dedicating over 19 years to its development and maintenance before resigning in 1906. Under his guidance, the cemetery saw the installation of paths, roads, and the planting of trees, which shaped the landscape that is recognized today.
Despite its successes, New Forest Cemetery has not been without its disputes and financial struggles. In 1894, a legal battle unfolded when New Forest filed suit against a neighboring cemetery for slander accusations, highlighting internal conflicts that occasionally surfaced, impacting its reputation and operations.
Modern Challenges and Community Efforts
By the late 20th century, the cemetery began facing severe financial difficulties. In 1987, during its 100th anniversary, it was disclosed that the cemetery had almost faced abandonment due to a lack of funds and interest from the board of trustees. However, community efforts, including volunteers from the Midstate Correctional Facility, helped revitalize the cemetery, demonstrating a communal commitment to its preservation.
In recent years the cemetery has continued to struggle with financial instability, which lead to deteriorating conditions and concerns about its future viability. However, a new board was elected, bringing renewed energy and commitment to the preservation of the cemetery. Since then, the grounds have been beautifully maintained, thanks in part to initial help from Oneida County with mowing. Additionally, the City of Utica, in an effort to help with flood mitigation on Oneida Street, was able to clean out the terribly overgrown pond and restore it, turning it back into a beautiful site to see. These efforts have not only improved the appearance of the cemetery but also its function within the community.
Conclusion
New Forest Cemetery's history is a testament to the evolving challenges and resilience of community institutions. From its inception as a dignified resting place accessible to all, to its struggles with financial viability and modernization, the cemetery has mirrored the dynamics of the community it serves. Continued efforts by local leaders and the community are essential to ensure that it remains a respected and well-maintained sanctuary that honors the past while looking towards the future. The cemetery's story is not just about the people it commemorates but also about the community's enduring spirit and commitment to preserving its historical heritage.
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Photographs by Alecia Pendasulo
Cemetery Search
Section 11a of the cemetery is currently digitalized. Functions best in Google Chrome.
How to Use
- Click, hold, and drag to look around.
- Select the Home button in the bottom left to return to the cemetery section.
- Scroll to zoom in and out or press the + or - buttons in the top right.
- To search, select the filter button next to the magnifying glass on the left panel.
- Enter known information in the applicable category, then select an option from the drop-down menu.
- Results that match the criteria are shown on the map.
- Click x to clear the filter.
- Press the white dots to access information on individual tombstones.
Contact
Photograph by Alecia Pendasulo
New Forest Cemetery
Address: 2001 Oneida St, Utica, New York, 13501
Email: nfc1886@gmail.com
Phone: (315) 724-7447
Please Support New Forest Cemetery through CashApp: $NEWFOREST22
Special Thanks
- Dave Tewksbury, Hamilton College, Geosciences
- Doug Higgins, Hamilton College, Digital Scholarship Collaborative
- Sara Mohr, Hamilton College, Digital Scholarship Collaborative
- Ahmed Abdehlreim '25, Hamilton College
- Ella Strasser '26, Hamilton College, Digital Scholarship Collaborative
- Alecia Pendasulo, Oneida Country History Center, Board of Directors
- Rebecca McLain, Oneida Country History Center, Executive Director
- Michele Hart, New Forest Cemetery
- Jeremy Hayes, New Forest Cemetery