
Located in West Babylon, New York, New Montefiore Cemetery is one of the largest and most historic Jewish cemeteries in the United States. Established in 1928, this 250-acre cemetery serves as a final resting place for thousands of individuals. Moreover, the cemetery reflects the rich cultural and religious heritage of Long Island’s Jewish community.
History of New Montefiore Cemetery
The Montefiore Cemetery Corporation had been maintaining Montefiore Cemetery in Springfield Gardens, Queens, since 1908. In 1928, the corporation purchased 250 acres from Pinelawn Cemetery for $375,000 to establish New Montefiore Cemetery. Burials began shortly after the land acquisition, and the cemetery quickly became a cornerstone of Jewish life on Long Island.
New Montefiore Cemetery is part of a well-known group of adjacent cemeteries along Wellwood Avenue, often referred to as “cemetery row.” This area includes the Long Island National Cemetery, Pinelawn Memorial Park, Saint Charles Cemetery, Beth Moses Cemetery, Wellwood Cemetery, New Montefiore, and Mount Ararat Cemetery. Collectively, these cemeteries represent a vital historical and cultural corridor for the region.
The cemetery’s organization reflects Jewish tradition, with sections often associated with synagogues, fraternal organizations, and specific communities. The Shomrim Society, the fraternal society of Jewish officers in the New York City Police Department, maintains a dedicated burial plot in New Montefiore, highlighting the cemetery’s ongoing connection to Jewish civic and religious life.
Notable Burials at New Montefiore Cemetery
New Montefiore Cemetery is the resting place for numerous influential figures who contributed to politics, arts, entertainment, sports, and the Jewish community. Below are some of the most notable burials:
Herb Abrams (1955–1996)
Herb Abrams, founder of the Universal Wrestling Federation (UWF), made a lasting impact on professional wrestling. Though the UWF operated for only a few years in the 1990s, Abrams’ promotion brought new ideas to wrestling and influenced future organizations in the industry.
Skippy Adelman (1924–2004)
Skippy Adelman, born Julius Adelman, was a celebrated photographer and executive in film production and advertising agencies. His innovative photography captured cultural moments of mid-20th century America and continues to be recognized in art circles.
Abe Beame (1906–2001)
Abraham David Beame, New York City’s 104th mayor, led the city during the fiscal crisis of the 1970s. Beame’s pragmatic leadership and efforts to stabilize city finances left a lasting mark on New York’s governance and urban history.
Benny Bell (1906–1999)
Benjamin Samberg, professionally known as Benny Bell, was a singer and songwriter whose humorous and often risqué songs became cultural touchstones in mid-century America. Bell’s unique style continues to be appreciated by music historians and enthusiasts alike.
Ruby Goldstein (1907–1984)
Ruby Goldstein, a professional boxer and referee, earned recognition for his fairness and sportsmanship. He officiated important matches and contributed to the legitimacy and professionalism of boxing during his era.
Aaron Goodelman (1890–1978)
Aaron Goodelman was a sculptor celebrated for his artistic contributions in galleries and exhibitions. His works remain a testament to Jewish creativity and cultural expression.
Sid Gordon (1917–1975)
Sid Gordon was a Major League Baseball player remembered for his athletic skill and contributions to the sport. Fans and historians continue to honor his achievements on the baseball diamond.
Morton Gould (1913–1996)
Morton Gould was a composer, conductor, arranger, and pianist with a career spanning classical, jazz, and Broadway music. Gould’s versatility and creativity earned him acclaim as one of America’s foremost musicians of the 20th century.
Laurel Griggs (2006–2019)
Laurel Griggs was a child actress who performed on Broadway, including in “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.” Her promising career was tragically cut short at age 13, yet her talent remains celebrated by the theater community.
Ze’ev Jabotinsky (1880–1940)
Ze’ev Jabotinsky was a Zionist leader, author, poet, orator, and soldier. He played a pivotal role in advocating for a Jewish homeland. Jabotinsky was reinterred in Mount Herzl Cemetery in Jerusalem in 1964, but his early burial at New Montefiore reflects the cemetery’s historical significance.
Alexa Kenin (1962–1985)
Alexa Kenin was an American actress known for her supporting roles in films such as “Little Darlings,” “Honkytonk Man,” and the posthumously released “Pretty in Pink.” Kenin’s talent made a lasting impact despite her short life.
Oscar Lewis (1914–1970)
Oscar Lewis, an anthropologist and author, conducted pioneering studies on urban poverty. His work continues to influence social sciences, highlighting the intersections of culture, poverty, and society.
Jacob Milch (1866–1945)
Jacob Milch, a writer, candy manufacturer, and socialist, made contributions to literature, industry, and social movements. His life illustrates the diverse talents and influence of Jewish individuals on American society.
Moissaye Joseph Olgin (1878–1939)
Olgin was a writer, journalist, and Communist active in early 20th-century Jewish labor movements. His advocacy for workers’ rights and social justice shaped political discourse in his era.
Lou Pearlman (1954–2016)
Lou Pearlman, a record producer, managed boy bands like NSYNC and the Backstreet Boys. Pearlman’s influence on pop music in the 1990s and early 2000s reshaped the entertainment industry.
Mae Questel (1908–1998)
Mae Questel was an actress and voice artist known for iconic characters Betty Boop and Olive Oyl. Her legacy in animation and entertainment remains unparalleled.
Tommy Ramone (1949–2014)
Tommy Ramone, born Thomas Erdelyi, was the original drummer for the punk rock band, the Ramones. His innovative drumming contributed to the creation and rise of punk music globally.
Emily Remler (1957–1990)
Emily Remler, a jazz guitarist, was known for her virtuosity and contributions to jazz. Her early passing at age 32 was a profound loss to the music community.
Seymour R. Thaler (1919–1976)
Seymour Thaler was a lawyer, New York State Senator, and controversial figure. His life and career reflect the complex interplay of public service, law, and personal legacy.
Nahum Tschacbasov (1899–1984)
Nahum Tschacbasov was a painter, educator, and poet whose works were deeply influenced by Jewish culture and heritage. His contributions continue to inspire students, collectors, and art enthusiasts.
Jewish Burial Traditions and New Montefiore Cemetery
New Montefiore Cemetery preserves Jewish burial traditions, including:
- Headstones: Single and double Jewish headstones honor individual and family legacies.
- Footstones: Smaller stones placed at the foot of the grave, complementing the main headstone.
- Inscriptions and Lettering: Customized to include names, dates, and personal messages.
- Custom Etchings: Symbols of Jewish faith such as Stars of David, menorahs, and other meaningful designs.
- Mausoleums: Family or individual mausoleums provide elegant above-ground resting places.
- Unveiling Ceremonies: Ceremonial gatherings marking the completion of headstones, honoring tradition.
- Monument Cleaning and Repair: Ensuring the longevity and integrity of memorials and headstones.
Fox Memorials: Preserving Legacies on Long Island
Located near New Montefiore Cemetery, Fox Memorials provides comprehensive Jewish monument services. Families rely on Fox Memorials to honor their loved ones with expertly crafted headstones, memorial benches, mausoleums, and custom etchings. Additionally, Fox includes coverings for unveiling ceremonies as well as monument maintenance. This ensures that legacies are preserved with dignity for generations.
Visiting New Montefiore Cemetery
Visitors to New Montefiore Cemetery can explore its serene grounds, learn about notable burials, and reflect on the history of the Jewish community on Long Island. Additionally, the cemetery is a valuable resource for genealogy research. Families can trace their heritage and connect with past generations. Those planning visits can contact Fox Memorials for guidance on headstone maintenance or monument care.
Conclusion
New Montefiore Cemetery is a historic and culturally significant site that reflects the heritage and contributions of the Jewish community on Long Island. From notable burials of political leaders, musicians, and artists to the preservation of Jewish burial traditions, the cemetery plays a vital role in honoring legacies. With the professional services provided by Fox Memorials, families can commemorate their loved ones through beautifully crafted monuments, headstones, and memorials that endure for generations.