Within New York’s Calvary Cemetery, the cemetery with the most interments in the United States, is a family burial ground that pre-dates the surrounding graveyard. In 1691 Richard Alsop inherited an estate and farm from his family along Newtown Creek. Alsop remained here until his death in 1718. He was buried along with his uncle, who he had received the land from, on top of a small hill.
Richard’s son and grandson (both named Richard) went on to become prominent men in the area, and they and their families were laid to rest here. When the land was secured for Calvary cemetery, purchased from the Alsop family, it included the Alsop Family Cemetery, which is officially the oldest part of Calvary. It is still maintained to this day by the trustees.
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