Eagle Scout Candidate Matthew Selmer Leads a Group of Scouts Through an Ambitious Project at The Woodland Cemetery.

The Woodland Cemetery continues to operate to the present day, serving the needs of Staten Island residents as a final resting place.

Like many small privately-held cemeteries on Staten Island, The Cemetery has in recent years come upon difficult times as population has changed, original plot holders have either died leaving no heirs or moved away, and Cemetery property has endured less than sufficient care.  Unlike other cemeteries, however, Woodland has not been officially declared “abandoned”, but has remained “active” by having a few burials each year.

For the last 10 years, the Trustees of Woodland Cemetery have been working with the Division of Cemeteries to create a restoration plan and revive this historic Cemetery.  In 2019, new officers were elected. The Cemetery’s president, vice-president and treasurer formed an Executive Committee, which oversees the day-to-day operations of the Cemetery, as well as restoration efforts.

There is something unique about the Woodland Cemetery Board. Each of the members comes from different walks of life, with different life experiences and talents. Further, it has been the mission of the Board of Woodland Cemetery to serve pro bono — meaning, no one is paid. The Trustees and officers serve without compensation, offering their time and effort on a strictly volunteer basis. The Cemetery holds a special place in the hearts of the Trustees, for it is the final resting place for their ancestors.