Gov. Samuel J. Tilden Monument

The Gov. Samuel J. Tilden Monument in the Cemetery of the Evergreens is a granite sarcophagus weighing about 9,500 pounds that sits on four cut stone steps with a bronze gate framing the entrance. The burial chamber itself contains three brick arched rooms beneath the main stone structure.

Architect Ernest Flagg designed and built this monument between 1895 and 1896 as the final resting place for Samuel J. Tilden, who served as Governor of New York from 1875 to 1876. The construction took place a generation after Tilden's death, reflecting the delayed recognition of his political legacy.

The phrase 'Still I Trust the People' carved into the stone reflects Tilden's belief in democracy despite his controversial election loss. This inscription reveals what mattered most to the man buried here.

The monument sits within the Cemetery of the Evergreens in Brooklyn, which is open to visitors during regular hours and welcomes people interested in its historical grounds. The location is peaceful, and walking the cemetery paths allows you to explore other graves and monuments from the same era.

The design showcases Classical Revival architecture that was fashionable for American state monuments in the late 1800s, with European influences adapted for American tastes. Few visitors notice how the bronze gate details match the granite craftsmanship below, creating a cohesive artistic statement about Tilden's importance.

Location: New York

GPS coordinates: 42.47494,-73.38562

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:23