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Where Is St. John's?: The Old Burying Ground by John Flood, Hudson Park Branch Library February 2, 2010

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Old St. John's burying ground - Between Hudson - Leroy - Clarkson Streets., Digital ID 720542F, New York Public Library

St. John's Burying Ground used to occupy the space which is now James J. Walker Park, between Leroy, Hudson and Clarkson Streets. In a sense it still does since the old stones were buried in place and few of the 10,000 occupants were moved. The only stone remaining is one dedicated to three firemen who gave their lives in the line of duty over 150 years ago.

Undoubtedly the residents of St. Lukes Place were relieved to have the cemetery removed, but some former residents of the area found inspiration in this crowded and stony lot. Edgar Allan Poe would wander the old burying ground when he lived for a short time on Carmine Street, perhaps imagining what is was like to be buried alive (see The Black Cat, The Cask of Amontillado, The Fall of the House of Usher).

 

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Last known maps of St. John's burying ground and graves/names

Submitted on April 25, 2010 at 7:15 PM.

Does anyone know if period maps exist of St. John's Burying Ground? One of my relatives (Sarah Newell) and her baby are buried there, 'on the east side near the fence'. I would like a map of the graves to put with the family records.

Addendum to the question about a map of St. John's Burying Groun

Submitted on April 25, 2010 at 7:20 PM.

Hi moderator,

If instead of posting my comment, if you can let me know if a map exists of the grave locations in St. Johns, I'd be most appreciative.

Linda.Hagedorn@gmail.com

Sarah Newell is my relative buried there.

Thank you.

Linda

St John's Burying Ground

Submitted by Ann on September 30, 2010 at 9:54 AM.

Does anyone know when the cemetery was turned into a park? I have several ancestors and collaterals who were buried in "the burial ground of St. J." around 1809 to 1812, and another 1832. I wonder if people had the option to move the bodies. Thank you for this interesting post and the earlier one, you have solved a mystery.

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