Hillside Cemetery, cemetery in Middletown, New York
Hillside Cemetery is a burial ground on a hillside in Middletown, New York, covering about 52 acres with winding paths that follow the natural contours of the land. The grounds feature mature trees, stone monuments and obelisks up to 30 feet tall, along with two ponds and a small stream that move through the property.
This burial ground was established in 1861 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1994 in recognition of its historical and architectural value. Many prominent members of the local community from the late 1800s are buried here, including several Civil War soldiers who received medals for their service.
The paths here are named after trees and plants, such as Elm Avenue and Magnolia Path, reflecting how the community views this place as both a memorial and a connection to nature. This naming tradition shows how the local culture blends remembrance with the natural landscape.
The winding paths are wide and easy to walk, with shaded corridors created by trees that lead to different areas of the grounds. Wear sturdy shoes since the terrain is hilly and the routes naturally follow the slope of the land.
The cemetery was designed by Calvert Vaux, the same landscape designer who worked on Central Park in New York City, bringing his vision of combining nature with human use to this hillside burial ground. Vaux created a series of small secluded areas connected by curved paths, bridges, and water features that allowed visitors to experience both quiet reflection and leisurely recreation.
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