Senate Resolution No. 839
BY: Senator GRIFFO
COMMEMORATING the 175th Anniversary of the Forest
Hill Cemetery
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body takes great pride in recognizing and
celebrating institutions of historical and cultural significance that
have played an essential role in shaping our communities; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 175th Anniversary of the Forest Hill Cemetery of Utica,
New York; and
WHEREAS, Forest Hill Cemetery, a non-profit, non-sectarian cemetery
conveniently located in the greater Utica area, is renowned worldwide
for its rich historical value and enduring service to the community; and
WHEREAS, Since its founding in 1848, Forest Hill Cemetery has served
as the final resting place for numerous national, state, and local
leaders, including a Vice President of the United States, veterans of
multiple armed conflicts, including recipients of the Medal of Honor,
political figures, industrial leaders, and philanthropic giants; and
WHEREAS, The dedicated staff of Forest Hill Cemetery has worked
tirelessly to uphold its longstanding reputation of dignity and care,
providing compassionate support to families in their times of need while
maintaining the grounds with exceptional commitment; and
WHEREAS, Recognizing the necessity for a new burial site due to the
overcrowding of the original "burying ground on Water Street," a group
of civic-minded citizens, including Judge William J. Bacon, met in the
office of Thomas R. Walker and determined to establish a cemetery
association, which became the Utica Cemetery Association; and
WHEREAS, Esteemed New York civil engineer Almerin Hotchkiss was
commissioned to design and develop the cemetery grounds with an artistic
vision, ensuring that winding roads preserved the natural landscape
rather than disrupting it; and
WHEREAS, During the cemetery's development, significant efforts were
made to clear land, create roadways, and establish burial plots while
maintaining the site's natural beauty and historical integrity; and
WHEREAS, One of the cemetery's early projects involved obtaining and
transporting the sacred stone of the Oneida Nation of Indians, with the
approval of the Oneida people, to Forest Hill Cemetery, where it was
placed near the entrance beside a small pond, preserving its cultural
and historical significance; and
WHEREAS, The formal opening of Forest Hill Cemetery in 1850 was a
momentous occasion for the growing city of Utica, marked by an elaborate
parade and ceremony attended by a vast gathering, including 200 Oneida
and Onondaga people who came to bid farewell to their sacred stone and
acknowledge its new resting place; and
WHEREAS, For 175 years, Forest Hill Cemetery has stood as a
testament to the history of Utica and the nation, serving as the final
resting place for countless distinguished Americans and dedicated
citizens of the region; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 175th anniversary of Forest Hill Cemetery in Utica, New
York, recognizing its historical significance, its contributions to the
preservation of heritage, and its continued service to the community
with dignity and respect; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the Forest Hill Cemetery.
