Friends Cemetery
Established in 1849, the Quaker Cemetery in Prospect Park is a hidden sanctuary for Friends from across generations.
- Programs and Services
- Friends Cemetery
The Friends/Quakers Cemetery in Prospect Park, Brooklyn
Situated on one of the highest points in Brooklyn, the Quaker Burial Ground began in 1849 (before Prospect Park was created) when nine acres of undeveloped farmland were purchased from four non-Quaker landowners. The cemetery is located on what was the border between the city of Brooklyn and the town of Flatbush. For a complete guide and information about the Cemetery, we have prepared a brochure that you can view and download: Cemetery Brochure: Use of the Quarterly Meeting Cemetery and Information on Preparation for Death
Access to the cemetery
Access to Friends Cemetery can be arranged by contacting one of the committee members (see below), by emailing cemetery@nycquakers.org.
If you are unable to contact the cemetery or any committee member, Quarterly Meeting Office (212) 777-8866 can assist you.
Who is eligible for burial?
Members of NYQM may be interred (full-body burial, plus burial or scattering of ashes). Spouses and domestic partners of members, their children (non-members included), and the grandchildren of current NYQM members may also be buried. Approval of the Cemetery Committee is required for other extended family members as well as others wishing consideration.
Cemetery Committee
Members of the Cemetery Committee can be of assistance with many of the routine tasks with which a family may be presented. These include planning a visit to the cemetery, choosing a burial plot, helping to decide details of burial, choosing clothing, helping to contact a funeral director or the Quarterly Meeting, or just providing companionship at a difficult time.
Bryan Oettel, Clerk
Jessica Fleischer-Black
Suzanne Stout
John Major
Susan Hannigan
Eric Jenkins-Sahlin
Cemetery Contributions
The cemetery is a resource that requires continuing care and concern. In order to protect it for ourselves and future generations, Friends who use the cemetery may wish to contribute to the Cemetery Endowment Fund, a separate endowment fund held by the Quarterly Meeting.
Directions
Driving note: Friends are allowed to slowly (5mph) and carefully (with hazard blinkers on) drive the short distance from the Prospect Park Southwest entrance to the cemetery entrance. If you are stopped, inform them that you are a Quaker attending an event at the cemetery.
Cemetery Committee Description
From New York Quarterly Meeting's Handbook (2020)
Composition: Quarterly Meeting Nominating Committee nominates 6 members.
Term: 3 years, beginning in April. Maximum tenure: 3 consecutive terms.
Meeting Frequency: At least quarterly, and often monthly.
Purpose: To assist members and families in burial plans and with the process of grieving, and to care for the cemetery property and records.
- Oversee and maintain records of interments and of sites requested in advance;
- Provide, if needed, advice and support for members and families in matters pertaining to preparation for death, in arranging for burial at the time of death, and, during the time after death, planning memorial services, choosing grave marker, and assistance in dealing with grief;
- Assist with visits to the cemetery by providing access and/or documents;
- Maintain the character of the cemetery as a place of quiet, remembrance, and worship;
- Report yearly to Trustees and New York Quarterly Meeting;
- Provide oversight and management regarding installation and maintenance of grave markers, plantings, fencing, structures and utilities;
- Arrange for purchase of equipment, supplies, and consultation services, acquire bids for and approve all maintenance, upkeep and improvement services;
- Develop policy in keeping with our tradition and with the Quarterly Meeting’s approval, regarding who can be interred in the cemetery, the size and type of grave markers, and the use of the property by outside groups;
- Guide and confer with employees of NYQM assigned to the cemetery, including the sexton and general manager, and with outside contractors, regarding execution of above responsibilities;
- Provide input and make recommendations to trustees regarding personnel issues;
- Respond to queries from concerned individuals or groups about the cemetery and its care;
- Maintain good relationships with the Parks Department and police in order to provide advocacy for Friends who use and visit the cemetery.
Interested in joining this committee or learning more? Please contact the New York Quarterly Meeting Nominating Committee.