Lake View Cemetery
Lake View Cemetery is a Not-For-Profit Association with over 160 years of continuous service to the Jamestown, NY, area. In 1858, the citizens of Jamestown realized that they had outgrown the village burial ground (located on the site of the present James Prendergast Library), and needed to make long-range plans for the future burial needs of the fast-growing community. About 37.5 acres (now over 150 acres) were purchased and developed by the Trustees, who were chosen by the people of Jamestown. On October 5, 1859, the cemetery was dedicated with appropriate ceremonies on the grounds, attended by a large portion of the villagers. To date there are more than 45,000 burials in the cemetery, with space for many thousands more.
Cremation & Burial Services
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News & Events
Spring Geranium Sale
ORDER YOUR FLOWERS FOR PLANTING BEFORE MEMORIAL DAY!(must be ordered no later than Monday, May 12th, 2025) PRICES INCLUDE FLOWERS AND PLANTING BY LAKE VIEW CEMETERY STAFF Geraniums (Deer Candy): $11.00 each Marigolds (Deer Resistant): $11.00 per pack of 6
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FAQs
Look through the answers to the most popular questions from our visitors.
Didn’t find what you need? Give us a call at 716-665-3206.
Who owns Lake View Cemetery?
The lot owners own the cemetery. Elected by the lot owners, the Board of Trustees acts as the governing body of the cemetery, which follows the rules and regulations of the New York State Division of Cemeteries. Contrary to popular belief, the cemetery is not owned, operated, or governed by the City of Jamestown.
How large is Lake View Cemetery?
The fenced-in area between Buffalo Street (at the south end) and Marvin Parkway (at the north end) houses approximately 68 acres. The “newer” area between Marvin Parkway and the I-86 expressway contains approximately 91 acres, with roughly 63 of those acres still undeveloped.
How do I locate graves in the cemetery?
You may call, email, or stop by our office at 907 Lakeview Avenue to obtain free maps of the cemetery. You may also pick up a “Self-Guided Tour of Lake View Cemetery” booklet, which also contains a map of the cemetery. We can locate individual graves or family lots for you on the map; and if necessary (and if personnel is available) can personally accompany you to locate a grave.
How many people are buried at Lake View Cemetery?
As the largest cemetery in Chautauqua, Cattaraugus and Warren Counties, currently Lake View Cemetery is the forever home of over 46,000 residents, with space still available for many thousands more.
Are dogs or other pets allowed in the cemetery?
No, unless it is a registered seeing eye dog and is accompanying the visitor for that purpose. You may bring a pet into the cemetery if it is kept in your vehicle while you make a brief visit. Please keep the safety of your pets in mind, as they cannot be left in vehicles in warm weather when the internal temperatures increase quickly.
When was the first burial?
Corrisande Barrett Lowry, 26, was buried August 30, 1859 on lot 2 of the Wildwood Section. This first burial occurred more than one month prior to the dedication of the cemetery on October 5, 1859. Burials from Jamestown’s original burial ground (the current site of the James Prendergast Library) were transferred here at a later date.