The Bayside Historical Society has launched an online fundraiser to help pay for repair work at the historic Lawrence Cemetery, which suffered damages during a storm on June 26.
Launched on Facebook on Thursday, July 18, the fundraiser originally had a target goal of $500. After that mark was quickly reached, BHS stretched the goal to $1,000. As of the morning of Wednesday, July 25, $710 has already been raised. In addition to Facebook, donations are also being accepted through PayPal. Those interested in donating via PayPal can do so by clicking here.
“Bayside Historical Society maintains this site, which sadly suffered extensive damage during the storm on June 26, 2024,” Bayside Historical Society said in a statement. “Our staff and volunteers have been dedicating themselves to all necessary repairs, but we could really use your help!”
According to former Bayside Historical Society President Paul DiBenedetto, the storm caused a tree at the cemetery to fall, knocking part of the iron gate fence that circles the cemetery out of place. The same thing had also happened there in a prior major storm within the last few years.
In addition to covering the costs to repair the fence, the fundraiser is also meant to help cover improvements to the cemetery. DiBenedetto noted the gravestones there are in desperate need of cleaning and restoration before the engravings fade away. He also noted BHS wants to add a tool shed to the site in order to help better address any maintenance that needs to be done there, including tree and grass trimming, gardening and weed pulling.
“Honestly, we could use $100,000 to achieve all our goals and to set a system in motion to maintain it year after year,” DiBenedetto said. “Every year, we’re relying upon ourselves, Eagle Scout projects, landscapers with a heart, electeds and other volunteers. All that takes time, even just getting people together.”
Located at the corner of 216th Street and 42nd Avenue in Bayside, the Lawrence Cemetery had its first burial in 1832 and its last in 1939. It is the resting place of former New York City Mayor Cornelius Van Wyck Lawrence, who served from 1834-1837. He is one of approximately 40 members of the Lawrence family, their descendants and heirs buried there. In 1967, the Lawrence Cemetery was designated as a city landmark.
DiBenedetto said he is happy to see the immense support that the community has been willing to provide in such a short period of time.
“It feels really good,” DiBenedetto said. “We’ve been around for 60 years. Some of the people who knew us in that 60-year period who were supporters are gone. We have to always keep regenerating interest from the community. This outpouring was good. I hope people continue to give, because we need more [to accomplish all our goals].”
