Six Feet Under the Big Apple: Which NYC Borough Has the Most Cemeteries?
New York City: a concrete jungle where dreams are made, fortunes are built, and, apparently, a whole lot of people decide to kick the bucket. But where do these departed souls end up? Let's dig into this morbidly fascinating question: which borough is the final resting place of choice for the most New Yorkers?
Queens: The Cemetery Capital?
You might be surprised to hear that the undisputed champion of NYC cemeteries is none other than Queens. Yes, the same borough that gave us the Mets, Flushing Meadows, and a metric ton of diversity is also home to more cemeteries than you can shake a tombstone at.
Now, before you start picturing Queens as one giant graveyard, let’s be clear: it's not all tombs and crypts. This bustling borough is still very much alive and kicking. But for some reason, the deceased seem to have a particular fondness for it.
Maybe it's the proximity to LaGuardia Airport, making it convenient for out-of-town mourners. Or perhaps it's the borough's rich history and diverse communities, offering a final resting place for people from all walks of life. Whatever the reason, Queens is undeniably the cemetery king of NYC.
The Other Boroughs: Not to Be Outdone
While Queens may wear the crown, the other boroughs aren't exactly cemetery-free zones. Brooklyn, with its historic Green-Wood Cemetery, is a close second. This sprawling, picturesque necropolis is not only a final resting place but also a popular spot for picnics and strolls. Who says cemeteries can't be beautiful?
Manhattan, on the other hand, is a bit more tight on space. With real estate prices sky-high, even the dead are finding it tough to find a decent plot. But fear not, Manhattanites: there are still a few historic cemeteries scattered around the island, offering a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
The Bronx and Staten Island also have their fair share of cemeteries, each with its own unique charm. From the rolling hills of Staten Island to the diverse neighborhoods of the Bronx, there's a final resting place for everyone.
Why So Many Cemeteries?
You might be wondering why NYC has so many cemeteries in the first place. Well, the city has a long and storied history, and with that comes a lot of dead people. Plus, with a population as dense as NYC's, finding space for the living can be a challenge, let alone the dead.
So, the next time you're in New York City, take a moment to appreciate the borough of Queens for its other claim to fame. And remember, even in the city that never sleeps, there's always a quiet place to rest in peace.
How To... Cemetery Edition
- How to find a cemetery in NYC: Use online resources like Find a Grave or visit the website of the NYC Department of Parks and Recreation.
- How to respect a cemetery: Dress modestly, speak softly, and avoid disturbing any grave markers or decorations.
- How to plan a visit to a historic cemetery: Many cemeteries offer guided tours, which can provide fascinating insights into the history of the area.
- How to choose a cemetery plot: Consider factors such as location, cost, and cemetery rules and regulations.
- How to care for a loved one's grave: Regularly visit the grave, keep it clean, and replace any flowers or decorations that have faded.