Program

Patriot Burials

Subject

Cemetery, People, Site

Location

1157 Hudson Ave, Stillwater, NY 12170, USA

Lat/Long

42.952615354295, -73.639631669787

Grant Recipient

Saratoga Battle Chapter, Empire State Society Sons of the American Revolution

The origins of the American Revolution can be traced back to 1775, when the first shots were fired between colonial and British forces at the Battle of Lexington and Concord. Soon after, the American Colonies declared their independence from Great Britain on July 4, 1776. As the newly formed United States went to war with Great Britain, hundreds of men across the Thirteen Colonies joined the fight. These men came from different walks of life; some were farmers, others were tradesmen, lawyers, doctors and merchants. Despite their differences they desired the same thing: freedom and independence. Colonial forces faced severe challenges, including lack of supplies and military training. However, in the face of obstacles they were undeterred. After nearly 8 years the colonies defeated Great Britain and successfully achieved their independence. It is important to remember the lives and sacrifices made by those who fought for American freedom.

Stillwater Union Cemetery is the final resting place of many of the area’s early residents with burials beginning as early as 1784. Additionally, those interred in the former Bemis Heights Cemetery were moved here around 1877. Among those buried here are at least 14 Revolutionary War veterans, including: John D. Bull, Weynant/Wynant W. Vandenbergh, Cornelius Vandenburgh, Richard Livingston, John Livingston, Peter Davenport, Samuel Bacon, Ezra Buell, Gideon Moore Jr., John Rowley, Reuben Wright, Simeon Boler, Abraham Livingston and David Blood.

Along with those veterans whose burial and service were definitively proven with primary sources as of 2023, Edward Wilcox and Rial Newland are believed by many to be buried here and to have served during the War.