J 839: Commemorating the 175th Anniversary of the Forest Hill Cemetery

 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.