JAMESTOWN, NY – December 18, 2024 – The Jamestown Historical Marker Committee, in collaboration with Mayor Kim Ecklund, has announced the unveiling of the city’s 80th historical marker, dedicated to the historic Lake View Cemetery. The marker is prominently placed at the corner of Buffalo Street and Lakeview Avenue, near the cemetery’s main entrance.
Lake View Cemetery, established on October 5, 1859, was the third burial ground within the Village of Jamestown. The dedication ceremony was a memorable occasion, featuring music by the Jamestown Cornet Band, choral performances, and speeches celebrating the cemetery’s importance as a peaceful and dignified resting place for the community. As part of the “rural cemetery” movement of the 19th century, Lake View was designed to offer a space for reflection and peace. Today, with over 45,000 burials, it remains an integral part of Jamestown’s heritage.
The committee chose Lake View Cemetery for this important milestone due to its deep connection to Jamestown residents. Whether visiting to honor loved ones, enjoying the tranquil surroundings, or learning about its history through the Fenton History Center’s guided tours, the cemetery has long been a cherished site for the community.
During the original dedication ceremony, Dr. G.W. Hazeltine, the first Superintendent of the Cemetery Association, articulated the profound significance of the site, stating: “May Lake View Cemetery become to us, and be to generations yet unborn, the source and the center of elevating sentiments and hallowing emotions. May it be ever sacred, for here shall be found the places of our final slumber. May it to us, to all, be none other than the House of God, and prove ‘the Gate of Heaven.’”
City Historian Ashley Senske extended her gratitude to the Mayor and City Council for their unwavering support of the historical marker program. She also acknowledged Parks Manager Dan Stone and his team for their vital role in completing the project. Committee members Traci Langworthy, Karen Livsey, Art Osterdahl, Sara Edstrom, and Jenn Champ joined the event to celebrate this meaningful addition to Jamestown’s historical narrative.
