History
History of Fairview Cemetery
The evolution of cemeteries in America from small family plots and churchyards to larger, modern facilities began in 1831 with the organization of Mount Auburn Cemetery in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
After the Civil War, the movement followed in Westfield when, on January 13, 1868, an organizational meeting was held in the lecture room of The Presbyterian Church in Westfield to establish an appropriate burial facility other than its crowded churchyard.
Pursuant to the act entitled: “An Act authorizing the incorporation of Rural Cemetery Associations”, the Fairview Cemetery Association was formed. The corporate name chosen was “Fairview Cemetery”.
1868-1899
Cemetery Plot Purchase
The original cemetery property consisted of 16- and one-half acres: 10 acres purchased on “easy payment terms”, paid as lots were sold, from Squier Pierson who lived on Gallows Hill Road, and 6- and one-half acres from John R. Miller who lived on Springfield Avenue then known as South Springfield Road.
1902-1950
Topographical Maps
To develop the newly acquired land, topographical maps and a detailed engineering plan were needed. Many interviews were conducted with various engineers, surveyors and land use planners. Information was also provided from established cemeteries, such as Green-wood in Brooklyn and Woodlawn in New York.
1978-1983
Master Plan for Southeast Area
By 1978 Fairview had grown to 106 acres and a Master Plan was provided for the undeveloped Southeast part of the cemetery. This section of land consisted of 40 acres and was bounded by East Broad Street and Gallows Hill Road.
1990-2019
Niches and Mausoleums
In keeping with the growing interest in above ground burials, Fairview constructed its first mausoleum, Mausoleum I, in 1996. Its classic architecture, with its columns, slate roof, and granite walls, form a stately and beautiful resting place.
2002-Present
Friends of Fairview
Fairview Cemetery was accepted as a member of the American Public Gardens Association (APGA) in 2002 following the dedicated work of Dr. Thomas Ombrello, Professor of Biology at Union County College. Arboretum status.
As part of the Friends of Fairview initiative, Fairview has now gained Level II Arboretum status.
1850-Present
Military Section
In the military section of Fairview Cemetery is a very old cannon known as “Old One Horn”. Its affectionate name derives from its missing right mounting “Horn” which is broken off.
There are several interesting tales of its history from Revolutionary times, but the cannon’s exact history from the period is unclear.
