Ocean View - The Cemetery Beautiful Inc.

Overview

Ocean View - The Cemetery Beautiful Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the operation and maintenance of a serene burial ground located in the Oakwood section of Staten Island, New York. Established in the early 1900s, the cemetery encompasses 105 acres and serves as a final resting place for over 50,000 individuals from diverse religious and cultural backgrounds.

History

The cemetery's origins trace back to the winter of 1899-1900 when it was among two new cemetery organizations formed to acquire land near Staten Island’s south shore. Ocean View was officially established by 1901 and absorbed the St. Agnes Cemetery corporation in 1905. This expansion allowed for the development of a substantial greenbelt of cemeteries in the area, including the neighboring United Hebrew Cemetery and Mount Richmond Cemetery. From 1925 to 1940, a section of Ocean View was incorporated as Valhalla Burial Park, catering primarily to the local Scandinavian community, but was later reabsorbed into Ocean View after the park's bankruptcy.

Mission and Services

The primary mission of Ocean View - The Cemetery Beautiful Inc. is to provide a well-maintained and respectful environment for burials. The organization offers various services, including:

• Sale of burial plots
• Ongoing care and maintenance of graves
• Conducting burial services for the deceased

As a nonprofit entity classified under 501(c)(13), donations to Ocean View are tax-deductible, reflecting its commitment to transparency and operational integrity.

Facilities and Features

Ocean View Cemetery is distinguished by its lush landscapes and picturesque settings, which are designed to promote tranquility and peace. Notable features of the cemetery include:

• Veterans Section: Honoring fallen soldiers, this area has hosted Veterans Day commemorations since 1919, including a prominent flagpole and a World War I monument.

• Ocean View Mausoleum: Once touted as New York City's first community mausoleum, this architectural landmark, designed by the firm Clinton and Russell, opened in 1920 but now remains largely hidden from view.

• Diverse Burial Options: The cemetery provides various burial and cremation options to meet the needs of plot owners and their families.

Community Impact

Ocean View - The Cemetery Beautiful Inc. plays a vital role in the Staten Island community by offering essential cemetery services that facilitate the memorialization of loved ones. The organization is focused on maintaining a peaceful environment, underscoring its importance in supporting families during times of grief.

Governance

The organization employs a dedicated team of professionals who oversee its operations, ensuring that the cemetery remains a beautiful and respectful place for remembrance. As of the latest reports, its financial activities demonstrate a commitment to sustainable management and community service.