Lake View Cemetery is a not-for-profit Association with over 160 years of continuous service to the Jamestown, New York area. In 1858, the citizens of Jamestown realized they had outgrown the existing burial ground (formerly located on the current site of the James Prendergast Library), and needed to make long-range plans for the future burial needs of the fast-growing community. Approximately 37.5 acres of land 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, and attended by local dignitaries and community members. To date, there are more than 150 acres and over 46,000 burials in the cemetery, with space (some yet undeveloped) for many thousands more.
A free booklet, Self-Guided Tours of Lake View Cemetery, contains more information about the cemetery’s history and residents. It is available in the cemetery office, located at 907 Lakeview Ave.