Prospect Cemetery and Chapel of the Sisters
Discover centuries of history at Prospect Cemetery and the Chapel of the Sisters, a resting place for early Dutch settlers and Revolutionary War heroe...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Prospect Cemetery and Chapel of the Sisters
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover centuries of history at Prospect Cemetery and the Chapel of the Sisters, a resting place for early Dutch settlers and Revolutionary War heroes in Queens.
"This historic cemetery is a treasure trove for genealogists and history buffs, offering a glimpse into New York's earliest days."
🚶♀️ Walk with Respect
Remember this is a resting place. Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid disturbing any graves.
🔍 Genealogist's Goldmine
Bring your research notes! Many early Dutch settlers and Revolutionary War veterans are interred here.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
2.7 · 10 reviews
Type
Cemetery
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Chapel of the Sisters
Prospect Cemetery Grounds
An ancient, historic chapel that stands as a testament to centuries of history in Jamaica, Queens.
Historic Gravestones
Prospect Cemetery
Discover weathered tombstones with inscriptions faded by time, hinting at the lives of early New York settlers.
Revolutionary War Veterans
Prospect Cemetery
Pay respects to soldiers who fought for American independence, buried in these historic grounds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Exploration
Uncover Local History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk with Respect
Remember this is a resting place. Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid disturbing any graves.
🔍 Genealogist's Goldmine
Bring your research notes! Many early Dutch settlers and Revolutionary War veterans are interred here. +1
👟 Comfortable Footwear
The grounds can be uneven. Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the cemetery comfortably.
📸 Respectful Photography
Capture the history, but always be respectful. Avoid intrusive shots and focus on the atmosphere.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk with Respect
Remember this is a resting place. Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid disturbing any graves.
🔍 Genealogist's Goldmine
Bring your research notes! Many early Dutch settlers and Revolutionary War veterans are interred here. +1
👟 Comfortable Footwear
The grounds can be uneven. Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the cemetery comfortably.
📸 Respectful Photography
Capture the history, but always be respectful. Avoid intrusive shots and focus on the atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors highlight Prospect Cemetery and Chapel of the Sisters as a historically significant site, particularly for genealogists and history enthusiasts interested in early New York settlers and Revolutionary War veterans. While some note a lack of consistent maintenance, others appreciate the historical depth and the presence of the ancient chapel. +1
"I have never visited any of your Cemeteries in Queens, New York OR the Cemeteries in any of the other boroughs. I am a genealogist, and wish to find out if any relatives passed away and were buried in New York( State). I know some of them arrived at the Port of New York and will be looking for them in Ellis Island and Ships Passenger Lists"
Beverly Van Fosson
"Some of the first generation Dutch founders of New York are buried here, way back before the Mayflower. Ogden is the surname, and they are my relatives. I can honestly say that besides Native Americans, my family were the first ones here (sans Viking settlements), well before the Mayflower. 1545 was when my 10th generation (I think) grandfather founded the Jamaica Queens area. When I discovered this I realized that while I may not be an original American (like the indigenous population although they migrated too) I am as OG NY'er as it gets!"
Jeigh Neither
"Prospect Cemetery is on the campus of York College, CUNY.
This is an historic cemetery with many Revolutionary war veterans buried. A fuller description can be found at:
Money has been spent in upgrading the Building there and the Cemetary has been cleaned up."
Jim Ryan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Prospect Cemetery is located on the campus of York College, CUNY, in Jamaica, Queens. You can reach it via public transportation, with several subway and bus lines serving the area. Check MTA schedules for the most convenient routes.
Parking availability can vary as it's on a college campus. It's advisable to check York College's visitor parking information or rely on public transport for easier access.
Yes, the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) passes overhead, offering a view of the cemetery. The nearest LIRR station would require further local transit to reach the cemetery itself.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Prospect Cemetery is generally open to the public for respectful visitation without requiring tickets.
As it's an active cemetery and part of a college campus, hours can be flexible. It's best to visit during daylight hours and be mindful of college activities.
Typically, there is no entrance fee for the Chapel of the Sisters itself, but it's part of the historic grounds. Access might be limited depending on any ongoing restoration or events.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore historic gravestones, including those of early Dutch settlers and Revolutionary War veterans, and see the ancient Chapel of the Sisters. +1
Visitor feedback on maintenance varies, with some noting it could be better cared for. However, efforts have been made to upgrade the buildings and grounds.
Absolutely! It's a prime location for genealogists looking for early New York families. Bring your research materials to identify potential relatives.
Official guided tours are not commonly advertised. However, you can explore independently or research the history beforehand to enhance your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed, but always be respectful of the solemn nature of the site.
The Chapel of the Sisters offers a unique architectural subject, and the older, weathered gravestones provide a sense of history and atmosphere.
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