Commemorating the 175th Anniversary of the Forest Hill Cemetery
Summary
This resolution commemorates the 175th anniversary of Forest Hill Cemetery in Utica, New York. It describes the cemetery as a historically and culturally significant non-profit, non-sectarian institution founded in 1848, and highlights its role as the final resting place of many notable figures, including a U.S. Vice President, veterans, Medal of Honor recipients, political leaders, industrialists, and philanthropists.
The resolution also recounts the cemetery’s origins, including the need for a new burial site due to overcrowding at the original Water Street burying ground, the involvement of local civic leaders in forming the Utica Cemetery Association, and the design work of civil engineer Almerin Hotchkiss. It further notes the cemetery’s early handling of the Oneida Nation’s sacred stone, with the Oneida people’s approval, and the ceremonial opening of the cemetery in 1850. The measure is purely commemorative and directs that a copy of the resolution be transmitted to Forest Hill Cemetery.
Impact
The resolution does not amend, create, or repeal any state law or statute. Its legal effect is limited to an official legislative recognition of Forest Hill Cemetery’s anniversary and historical importance, with no regulatory, fiscal, or programmatic impact on state agencies, local governments, or private parties beyond the ceremonial transmission of the resolution.
Sentiment
The overall sentiment is strongly positive and celebratory. The bill frames Forest Hill Cemetery as a respected community institution with deep historical, cultural, and civic value, and the tone emphasizes pride, remembrance, and gratitude for its continued service. No opposition or negative commentary is reflected in the available record.
Contention
There is no recorded contention in the bill text, voting history, or committee materials provided. Because the resolution is commemorative only, it appears to have been noncontroversial. The only potentially sensitive historical reference is the relocation of the Oneida Nation’s sacred stone, but the text presents that event as having occurred with the Oneida people’s approval and as part of the cemetery’s heritage rather than as a point of dispute.