Buried Long Island: History Set in Stone

by Alyssa Gutierrez

The world as we know it today was made by the individuals who rest in our burial grounds. On Long Island, the cultural landscape is marked by resting places that reflect the history of the land, and the groups of people who called it home. Like every other region of America, Long Island has an indigenous history, a colonial history, and a legacy of social stratification and inequality that is showcased in historical burial grounds all over the island. Every surviving burial ground is a physical representation of families who lived, worked, and existed on the same ground that we now call home. Epitaphs of devotion and sorrow represent love felt just as strongly as we feel it today, and loss just as biting as our losses. This photographic collection showcases the full scope of historical Long Island funeral practices during the colonial and early American period, from elaborately carved headstones imported and installed before the United States gained independence, to the modest fieldstone markers of individuals whose names are lost. If you know where to look, Long Island is home to endless examples of burial artifacts that really bring the famous colonial epitaph to life. Come and see, as you pass by. As you are now, so once was I. As I am now, so you must be. Prepare for Death, and follow me. This book is a celebration of the ways in which the past inhabitants of Long Island have honored their dead, and a recognition of how our history rests in our graveyards.

96 pages, Paperback

Published September 25, 2023

Reviews

[Jessica Gutierrez · Rating 5 out of 5]

While I may be biased due to my being related to the author, I wholeheartedly believe that this is a beautifully written book that brings us closer to our history on Long Island. The amount of research that went into writing this book, and the amount of passion on this topic is evident throughout the storytelling and captions. Alyssa does a great job of educating the reader of both the stone carvers throughout the years and the dead interred in the burial grounds. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking to improve their knowledge of cemeteries on Long Island and the vast history that comes with them.

[John Peel · Rating 4 out of 5]

A brief look at colonial tombstones scattered across Long Island and information on the people who carved them. Well-illustrated, and a pleasant short guide.

[Cathryn · Rating 2 out of 5]

I found this disappointing; it's just photos of gravestones.