(Sold Out) Black in 19th-Century Brooklyn
Green-Wood Cemetery 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY, United StatesIn 1838, just eleven years after New York State abolished slavery, a free black man named James Weeks made his first purchase of land in Brooklyn. Weeksville, named after Weeks, would become one of America's largest free Black communities prior to the Civil War. In the same year, Green-Wood Cemetery was established. What do they have in common? Both honor the lives of African Americans who lived in Brooklyn and who made their mark on the city's past and future. Nearly two hundred years later, Green-Wood and Weeksville Heritage Center join together to celebrate and recognize their shared history by welcoming you to a very special Saturday afternoon.
Historic Trolley Tour
Experience the most magnificent and historic 478 acres in New York City. Join our expert tour guides to hear fascinating stories of Green-Wood’s permanent residents, see breathtaking views of Manhattan, tread where George Washington and his troops fought the Battle of Brooklyn, and much more.
Each tour boasts great views, beautiful monuments throughout, rolling hills, century-old trees and stories of the fascinating persons interred at Green-Wood. Please note: all tours include a visit to Green-Wood's Historic Chapel and to Battle Hill.
Death Café
Green-Wood Cemetery 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY, United StatesThe Death Café is a simple concept. It was inspired by the centuries-old European salon (or café) where people gathered informally to discuss philosophical, political or scientific ideas. In 2011, British entrepreneur Jon Underwood brought the concept to discussions of the most universal topic of all: death. Underwood's intention was to provide an opportunity to "increase awareness of death with a view to helping people make the most of their lives." Today, there are over 1,500 death cafes in 26 countries around the world.
Beginning in January 2017, Green-Wood is proud to host monthly gatherings of the Death Café here in our beautiful, modern chapel. Amy Cunningham, death educator and creator of the Brooklyn-based blog TheInspiredFuneral.com, invites participants to share their thoughts and feelings on death. It's an opportunity for safe and open exchanges, without an agenda. Coffee and light snacks are provided.
Historic Trolley Tour
Experience the most magnificent and historic 478 acres in New York City. Join our expert tour guides to hear fascinating stories of Green-Wood’s permanent residents, see breathtaking views of Manhattan, tread where George Washington and his troops fought the Battle of Brooklyn, and much more.
Each tour boasts great views, beautiful monuments throughout, rolling hills, century-old trees and stories of the fascinating persons interred at Green-Wood. Please note: all tours include a visit to Green-Wood's Historic Chapel and to Battle Hill.
Historic Trolley Tour
Experience the most magnificent and historic 478 acres in New York City. Join our expert tour guides to hear fascinating stories of Green-Wood’s permanent residents, see breathtaking views of Manhattan, tread where George Washington and his troops fought the Battle of Brooklyn, and much more.
Each tour boasts great views, beautiful monuments throughout, rolling hills, century-old trees and stories of the fascinating persons interred at Green-Wood. Please note: all tours include a visit to Green-Wood's Historic Chapel and to Battle Hill.
Historic Trolley Tour
Experience the most magnificent and historic 478 acres in New York City. Join our expert tour guides to hear fascinating stories of Green-Wood’s permanent residents, see breathtaking views of Manhattan, tread where George Washington and his troops fought the Battle of Brooklyn, and much more.
Each tour boasts great views, beautiful monuments throughout, rolling hills, century-old trees and stories of the fascinating persons interred at Green-Wood. Please note: all tours include a visit to Green-Wood's Historic Chapel and to Battle Hill.
(Canceled) Historic Trolley Tour
Experience the most magnificent and historic 478 acres in New York City. Join our expert tour guides to hear fascinating stories of Green-Wood’s permanent residents, see breathtaking views of Manhattan, tread where George Washington and his troops fought the Battle of Brooklyn, and much more.
Each tour boasts great views, beautiful monuments throughout, rolling hills, century-old trees and stories of the fascinating persons interred at Green-Wood. Please note: all tours include a visit to Green-Wood's Historic Chapel and to Battle Hill.
Cremation: History and Modern Process
Green-Wood Cemetery 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY, United StatesWhat is cremation? How long have we been doing it, and how does it work? Amy Cunningham, death educator, leads this presentation of cremation's history and its impact on present-day and future funerals. This engaging and sometimes even light-hearted exploration will also touch on how to choose an end-of-life mode of disposition that expresses your own beliefs and values. Afterward, you will have the opportunity to visit the crematory with Gema LaBoccetta, Green-Wood's Crematory Manager, then chat with Amy and other attendees at a short reception.
Green-Wood in an Hour
Green-Wood Cemetery 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY, United StatesDon’t have a lot of time? These new tours are perfect for you. Because Green-Wood is an immense place, and a visit to our grounds can sometimes be overwhelming. What to see? Where to walk? That’s why we’ve created these short but power packed tours that give you a fascinating look at a single aspect of Green-Wood. On the third Friday of every month, one of our expert staff members will take you behind the scenes for rare insights into this historic cemetery. And after sixty minutes, you’re on your way!
Healthcare for Trees
A long life depends on good health and, when necessary, a little reduction. It’s true for us. It’s true for trees. Led by Arborist Bill Logan, you’ll practice using hand pruners, lopers, and pole pruners and learn the proper techniques behind sanitary, reduction, and developmental pruning.
Twilight Tour
There are few places more atmospheric than a cemetery at dusk – and Green-Wood is top notch when it comes to beauty and ambience. Arm yourself with a flashlight to explore the cemetery’s stunning landscape as the sun sets over the horizon. On this walking tour, you’ll visit the graves of fascinating figures in New York and American culture, ending at our famous catacombs, which are normally closed to the public. Please bring a flashlight to light your way. Comfortable footwear is recommended.
Historic Trolley Tour
Experience the most magnificent and historic 478 acres in New York City. Join our expert tour guides to hear fascinating stories of Green-Wood’s permanent residents, see breathtaking views of Manhattan, tread where George Washington and his troops fought the Battle of Brooklyn, and much more.
Each tour boasts great views, beautiful monuments throughout, rolling hills, century-old trees and stories of the fascinating persons interred at Green-Wood. Please note: all tours include a visit to Green-Wood's Historic Chapel and to Battle Hill.
Great Women of Green-Wood
Join us in celebration of Women’s History Month by honoring some of Green-Wood’s most influential women of the 19th and early 20th centuries. Led by veteran tour guide Ruth Edebohls, hear the engaging story of pioneering doctors Susan McKinney Steward and Mary Jacobi; abolitionist Abigail Hopper Gibbons; 19th century actresses Laura Keene who was on stage during Lincoln’s assassination and Kate Claxton who continued performing during the Brooklyn Theater fire of 1876; and Isabella Goodwin, first woman detective in the NYPD, among many others!
(Sold Out) Dead Distillers Trolley Tour
Green-Wood is teaming with our friends at Kings County Distillery to delve into the past and present of distilling, Brooklyn style. The afternoon kicks off with a trolley tour of the cemetery's permanent residents with whiskey connections, including the only casualty in the contentious Whiskey Wars of the mid-1800s. Afterward, the trolley will head to Kings County Distillery in the Brooklyn Navy Yard to explore how whiskey is made and enjoy a tasting of four of their of their delectable products (which they have been producing since 2010).
Historic Trolley Tour
Experience the most magnificent and historic 478 acres in New York City. Join our expert tour guides to hear fascinating stories of Green-Wood’s permanent residents, see breathtaking views of Manhattan, tread where George Washington and his troops fought the Battle of Brooklyn, and much more.
Each tour boasts great views, beautiful monuments throughout, rolling hills, century-old trees and stories of the fascinating persons interred at Green-Wood. Please note: all tours include a visit to Green-Wood's Historic Chapel and to Battle Hill.
Historic Trolley Tour
Experience the most magnificent and historic 478 acres in New York City. Join our expert tour guides to hear fascinating stories of Green-Wood’s permanent residents, see breathtaking views of Manhattan, tread where George Washington and his troops fought the Battle of Brooklyn, and much more.
Each tour boasts great views, beautiful monuments throughout, rolling hills, century-old trees and stories of the fascinating persons interred at Green-Wood. Please note: all tours include a visit to Green-Wood's Historic Chapel and to Battle Hill.
Baseball Greats at Green-Wood Trolley Tour
Batter up! To lead off the 2017 season, we’ll welcome baseball historian Tom Gilbert for a tour of the fascinating ball-playing pioneers interred at Green‑Wood. With Tom and Green‑Wood Historian Jeff Richman, you’ll visit the monuments and gravestones of Henry Chadwick, the Father of Baseball, who invented the game’s scoring system; James Creighton, baseball’s first national star; Charles Ebbets, owner of the Brooklyn Dodgers; the great hitter Charlie Smith; and many others who played a role in making baseball America’s National Pastime.
(Sold Out) War Comes to Brooklyn Trolley Tour
This special two-part trolley tour will examine the connections between the residents of Green-Wood and the iconic Brooklyn Army Terminal. Our afternoon starts with a visit to the graves of those who built, worked, and served at the Army Terminal, as well as other important figures in the development of Brooklyn's military and industrial waterfront over the past century. Then we head to the Army Terminal, designed by renowned architect Cass Gilbert and completed in 1919, to discover its past as an important transportation and logistics hub through World War II until the mid-1960's and its future as home to over 100 companies in a wide range of industries. This tour last 2.5 hours, and it does require some walking and climbing stairs. The tour will begin and end at the Green-Wood Cemetery.
Death Café
Green-Wood Cemetery 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY, United StatesThe Death Café is a simple concept. It was inspired by the centuries-old European salon (or café) where people gathered informally to discuss philosophical, political or scientific ideas. In 2011, British entrepreneur Jon Underwood brought the concept to discussions of the most universal topic of all: death. Underwood's intention was to provide an opportunity to "increase awareness of death with a view to helping people make the most of their lives." Today, there are over 1,500 death cafes in 26 countries around the world.
Beginning in January 2017, Green-Wood is proud to host monthly gatherings of the Death Café here in our beautiful, modern chapel. Amy Cunningham, death educator and creator of the Brooklyn-based blog TheInspiredFuneral.com, invites participants to share their thoughts and feelings on death. It's an opportunity for safe and open exchanges, without an agenda. Coffee and light snacks are provided.
Historic Trolley Tour
Experience the most magnificent and historic 478 acres in New York City. Join our expert tour guides to hear fascinating stories of Green-Wood’s permanent residents, see breathtaking views of Manhattan, tread where George Washington and his troops fought the Battle of Brooklyn, and much more.
Each tour boasts great views, beautiful monuments throughout, rolling hills, century-old trees and stories of the fascinating persons interred at Green-Wood. Please note: all tours include a visit to Green-Wood's Historic Chapel and to Battle Hill.
(Sold Out) Scandals, Scalawags, and Murder Most Foul Trolley Tour
Green-Wood is the final resting place of many famous and heroic figures in American history, but some of its deceased denizens have a more blemished reputation. Veteran tour guide Ruth Edebohls leads a thrilling exploration featuring the lives of murderers and the murdered, sullied adulteress Elizabeth Tilton and famed courtesan Lola Montez, as well as gangsters (Albert Anastasia and Joe Gallo), con men and schemers that count among Green-Wood’s most notorious permanent residents.
Historic Trolley Tour
Experience the most magnificent and historic 478 acres in New York City. Join our expert tour guides to hear fascinating stories of Green-Wood’s permanent residents, see breathtaking views of Manhattan, tread where George Washington and his troops fought the Battle of Brooklyn, and much more.
Each tour boasts great views, beautiful monuments throughout, rolling hills, century-old trees and stories of the fascinating persons interred at Green-Wood. Please note: all tours include a visit to Green-Wood's Historic Chapel and to Battle Hill.
Brooklyn’s Brewing History Trolley Tour
From the colonial period to Prohibition to today's craft beer renaissance, Brooklyn has played a major role in brewing this most famous of beverages. Board the trolley and step back in time to discover the borough’s brewing roots with beer historian Chris Heuberger and Green-Wood historian Jeff Richman. Along the way, they’ll showcase Green-Wood's many beer-related points of interest, revealing the borough’s storied brewing prominence. We'll cover beer’s close connection with baseball, immigration, and industry, including Joseph Fallert, Jacob Ruppert, and Charles Feltman.
Historic Trolley Tour
Experience the most magnificent and historic 478 acres in New York City. Join our expert tour guides to hear fascinating stories of Green-Wood’s permanent residents, see breathtaking views of Manhattan, tread where George Washington and his troops fought the Battle of Brooklyn, and much more.
Each tour boasts great views, beautiful monuments throughout, rolling hills, century-old trees and stories of the fascinating persons interred at Green-Wood. Please note: all tours include a visit to Green-Wood's Historic Chapel and to Battle Hill.
(Sold Out) Twilight Tour
There are few places more atmospheric than a cemetery at dusk – and Green-Wood is top notch when it comes to beauty and ambience. Arm yourself with a flashlight to explore the cemetery’s stunning landscape as the sun sets over the horizon. On this walking tour, you’ll visit the graves of fascinating figures in New York and American culture, ending at our famous catacombs, which are normally closed to the public. Please bring a flashlight to light your way. Comfortable footwear is recommended.
Twilight Tour
There are few places more atmospheric than a cemetery at dusk – and Green-Wood is top notch when it comes to beauty and ambience. Arm yourself with a flashlight to explore the cemetery’s stunning landscape as the sun sets over the horizon. On this walking tour, you’ll visit the graves of fascinating figures in New York and American culture, ending at our famous catacombs, which are normally closed to the public. Please bring a flashlight to light your way. Comfortable footwear is recommended.
Green-Wood in an Hour
Green-Wood Cemetery 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY, United StatesDon’t have a lot of time? These new tours are perfect for you. Because Green-Wood is an immense place, and a visit to our grounds can sometimes be overwhelming. What to see? Where to walk? That’s why we’ve created these short but power packed tours that give you a fascinating look at a single aspect of Green-Wood. On the third Friday of every month, one of our expert staff members will take you behind the scenes for rare insights into this historic cemetery. And after sixty minutes, you’re on your way!
Historic Trolley Tour
Experience the most magnificent and historic 478 acres in New York City. Join our expert tour guides to hear fascinating stories of Green-Wood’s permanent residents, see breathtaking views of Manhattan, tread where George Washington and his troops fought the Battle of Brooklyn, and much more.
Each tour boasts great views, beautiful monuments throughout, rolling hills, century-old trees and stories of the fascinating persons interred at Green-Wood. Please note: all tours include a visit to Green-Wood's Historic Chapel and to Battle Hill.
Gardens of Stone: Book Talk and Panel
Green-Wood Cemetery 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY, United StatesNew York City is famous for many things - hot dogs, the Empire State Building, pigeons. And add to that list cemeteries. Author and funeral director Alexandra Kathryn Mosca leads us on an armchair tour of cemeteries both large and small (and we are talking really small) throughout the five boroughs. Her new book, Gardens of Stone, explores how memorials and monuments help to tell the tale of New York City, from its humble beginnings to its emergence as a world capital. She will be joined by John Rousmaniere, who has compiled an illustrated history of Evergreens Cemetery (which straddles Brooklyn and Queens), titled Green Oasis in Brooklyn, and Richard L. Simpson, who recently published a book on Staten Island's Moravian Cemetery.
Over There! Green-Wood and World War I Trolley Tour
April marks the 100th anniversary of United States' entry into World War I. Our trolley tour pays homage to the many laid to rest at Green-Wood who served in this war intended to end all wars. We will visit the graves of wealthy heiresses Dorothy and Gladys Cromwell whose dramatic double suicide captured the attention of the nation; reconnaissance pilot Lieutenant Kenneth Culbert shot down over enemy lines; and ace bomber pilot First Lieutenant John Cowperthwaite Tyler, amongst others. Along the way, we will read from letters these men and women detailing their heroic exploits, as well as discuss how our dedicated team of volunteers have identified these individuals and where they are interred.
(Sold Out) Dead Distillers Trolley Tour
Green-Wood is teaming with our friends at Kings County Distillery to delve into the past and present of distilling, Brooklyn style. The afternoon kicks off with a trolley tour of the cemetery's permanent residents with whiskey connections, including the only casualty in the contentious Whiskey Wars of the mid-1800s. Afterward, the trolley will head to Kings County Distillery in the Brooklyn Navy Yard to explore how whiskey is made and enjoy a tasting of four of their of their delectable products (which they have been producing since 2010).
Historic Trolley Tour
Experience the most magnificent and historic 478 acres in New York City. Join our expert tour guides to hear fascinating stories of Green-Wood’s permanent residents, see breathtaking views of Manhattan, tread where George Washington and his troops fought the Battle of Brooklyn, and much more.
Each tour boasts great views, beautiful monuments throughout, rolling hills, century-old trees and stories of the fascinating persons interred at Green-Wood. Please note: all tours include a visit to Green-Wood's Historic Chapel and to Battle Hill.
The Future of the Funeral
Green-Wood Cemetery 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY, United StatesFunerals may be as old as mankind, but they are continually evolving to meet the needs and demands of a changing world. Join Amy Cunningham, funeral director and death educator, to explore everything from home funeral options to simple cremation services to "green" burials. The most modern and recent technologies will also be presented. She will provide her insights and answer common questions like, "What if my deceased partner/spouse is of a different faith tradition or cultural background?", "How much direction can I give to celebrants and clergy or to friends and family?", "Is it possible to host my own funeral before I go?" In the course of this friendly hour, you'll get a glimpse of what a funeral can be - and you'll leave with comforting ideas and inspiration for yourself or someone you love.
Here Lie the Secrets of the Visitors of Green-Wood Cemetery
Green-Wood Cemetery 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY, United StatesGreen-Wood and Creative Time partner to present Sophie Calle's site-specific installation "Here Lie the Secrets of the Visitors of Green-Wood Cemetery". Visitors are invited to transcribe their most intimate secrets onto paper and lay them to rest in a grave designed by the artist.
During the debut weekend, visitors are encouraged to spend the day exploring the sculptures and monuments throughout Green-Wood, a tradition that dates back to the early 1800s. Free maps of the cemetery, specially made to accompany Calle's installation, will be available. Also guided walking tours, with an emphasis on symbols and iconography, will be offered at no cost.
Historic Trolley Tour
Experience the most magnificent and historic 478 acres in New York City. Join our expert tour guides to hear fascinating stories of Green-Wood’s permanent residents, see breathtaking views of Manhattan, tread where George Washington and his troops fought the Battle of Brooklyn, and much more.
Each tour boasts great views, beautiful monuments throughout, rolling hills, century-old trees and stories of the fascinating persons interred at Green-Wood. Please note: all tours include a visit to Green-Wood's Historic Chapel and to Battle Hill.
Here Lie the Secrets of the Visitors of Green-Wood Cemetery
Green-Wood Cemetery 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY, United StatesGreen-Wood and Creative Time partner to present Sophie Calle's site-specific installation "Here Lie the Secrets of the Visitors of Green-Wood Cemetery". Visitors are invited to transcribe their most intimate secrets onto paper and lay them to rest in a grave designed by the artist.
During the debut weekend, visitors are encouraged to spend the day exploring the sculptures and monuments throughout Green-Wood, a tradition that dates back to the early 1800s. Free maps of the cemetery, specially made to accompany Calle's installation, will be available. Also guided walking tours, with an emphasis on symbols and iconography, will be offered at no cost.
Historic Trolley Tour
Experience the most magnificent and historic 478 acres in New York City. Join our expert tour guides to hear fascinating stories of Green-Wood’s permanent residents, see breathtaking views of Manhattan, tread where George Washington and his troops fought the Battle of Brooklyn, and much more.
Each tour boasts great views, beautiful monuments throughout, rolling hills, century-old trees and stories of the fascinating persons interred at Green-Wood. Please note: all tours include a visit to Green-Wood's Historic Chapel and to Battle Hill.
Birding in Peace
Green-Wood Cemetery 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY, United StatesBefore our gates open to the general public, birding expert Rob Jett leads these peaceful Sunday morning walking tours to discover the many birds that call Green-Wood home. Copies of our new Bird Checklist will be available to all tour participants. Comfortable footwear is recommended.
Tree ID Workshop
As home to over 9,000 trees, Green-Wood’s collection of maples, oaks, beeches, and gingkoes is one of the best in New York City. But how can you possibly tell them apart? Arborist Bill Logan leads an intensive five hour workshop that begins with a close study of an array of twigs and leaves, and learning how to classify those using dichotomous keys.
Birding in Peace
Green-Wood Cemetery 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY, United StatesBefore our gates open to the general public, birding expert Rob Jett leads these peaceful Sunday morning walking tours to discover the many birds that call Green-Wood home. Copies of our new Bird Checklist will be available to all tour participants. Comfortable footwear is recommended.
Historic Trolley Tour
Experience the most magnificent and historic 478 acres in New York City. Join our expert tour guides to hear fascinating stories of Green-Wood’s permanent residents, see breathtaking views of Manhattan, tread where George Washington and his troops fought the Battle of Brooklyn, and much more.
Each tour boasts great views, beautiful monuments throughout, rolling hills, century-old trees and stories of the fascinating persons interred at Green-Wood. Please note: all tours include a visit to Green-Wood's Historic Chapel and to Battle Hill.
Green-Wood’s public programs are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature, as well as the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs.
