Preserve History: Support Hale Cemetery

Preserve History: Support Hale Cemetery

We are seeking your generous support to preserve and maintain Hale Cemetery, a vital National Historical Site located in Norfolk, New York. Preserving Hale Cemetery is a shared responsibility, ensuring this sacred space continues to honor our collective history. Your contribution, no matter the size, directly supports the ongoing upkeep and essential operational needs, including:

• Grounds and Graves Maintenance: Mowing and general care of the cemetery grounds, respectful preservation of burial sites

• Infrastructure: Maintaining safe roadways, gates, the historic cobblestone arch, and the cemetery fence.

Your financial contributions, regardless of size, are deeply appreciated and will play a role in safeguarding Hale Cemetery's legacy. We are confident that, with your support, we can ensure the respectful and enduring preservation of this historical treasure.

Please donate today.

Thank you.

History of Hale Cemetery:

Hale Cemetery, initially known as the "Burial Ground for the Neighborhood," was officially deeded to Colonel Ira Hale on May 29, 1836, by John and Alida Van Renssalear Constable. The site predates this transfer, with the earliest known burial dating to 1823, that of 10-year-old Hannah Thatcher. Notably, 1823 also marked Norfolk's separation from Stockholm, meaning the cemetery functioned across two towns simultaneously in its early years. In 2023, the cemetery commemorated its 200th anniversary.

A distinguishing feature of Hale Cemetery's history is its dual role as a military training ground. From the 1820s to the 1840s, Colonel Ira Hale utilized the front section for the annual September training days of the 153rd Regiment, 49th Brigade, 12th Division West Company of Stockholm infantry of New York State. This makes it the only known cemetery in the county to have served such a purpose. As local historian Susan Lyman explains, these rigorous training sessions were conducted by North Country men under Colonel Hale's guidance, who was commissioned by General Andrew Jackson.

Architecturally, the cemetery is characterized by a distinctive low cobblestone wall and a cobblestone arch inscribed with "Hale Cemetery," which separates the front and older sections. These features were constructed in 1923 by William Fletcher and local mason George Dove.

Hale Cemetery is a historic resource that is home to the final resting places of many members of the Norfolk community and has over 90 veterans interred there from the American Revolution War, Civil War, World War I, World War II, Korean War, and Vietnam. The gravestones reflect the evolution and change in grave monument styles over the years. The cemetery is a valuable asset to the community as a monument to the past.

Thank you for helping us ensure the respectful and enduring preservation of this historical treasure.