Hart Island in New York City is the nation’s largest potter’s field, with over a million New Yorkers buried there since 1868. It used to be run by the Department of Correction, but control was shifted to the Department of Parks and Recreation in 2021 to turn it into a public park. The Human Resources Administration now handles burial operations for the unclaimed or financially unable. Public tours are being offered to make the island more accessible. Advocates are pushing for individual grave sites instead of mass burials, but the Parks Department’s forthcoming master plan is not expected to change the current burial practices.
Hart Island, located just a short ferry ride from City Island, is not only one of New York City’s newest parks but also the largest potter’s field in the nation, with over a million New Yorkers buried there since 1868. The island, partly forested with open fields where wildlife roams freely, offers a unique and serene setting with views of the Long Island Sound. Over the years, the island has been under the management of different city departments, with the latest shift in control to the Department of Parks and Recreation in 2021. The Human Resources Administration now oversees the burial operations on the island, providing a dignified resting place for those who remain unclaimed or whose families cannot afford traditional burial options.
In an effort to make Hart Island more accessible to the public, guided tours led by Urban Park Rangers have been introduced, providing visitors with a rare opportunity to explore the island’s history and natural beauty. These tours have become popular among the public, with hundreds of visitors having experienced the island firsthand since their inception. The Parks Department is currently working on a master plan to enhance the visitor experience on the island, including the addition of amenities like public restrooms and measures to improve the island’s resilience to climate change.
Despite these developments, concerns have been raised by advocates, including the Hart Island Project, about the continued practice of mass burials on the island. The organization is advocating for a more humane burial system that would allow for individual graves that could be reused over time. While the Parks Department’s master plan does not currently include a shift away from mass burials, discussions on burial practices are ongoing.
Visitors to Hart Island have the opportunity to schedule graveside visitations for their loved ones buried on the island, and the public can participate in guided tours organized by the Parks Department. Capacity for these tours is limited, and advance registration is required to secure a spot.
Overall, Hart Island remains a unique and historically significant destination in New York City, offering a peaceful retreat and a place for reflection on the city’s past and present. As efforts continue to enhance accessibility and facilities on the island, it is likely to become an even more valuable resource for both locals and visitors in the years to come.
Source: TheCity.NYC
