Northern New York Community Foundation

Northern New York Community Foundation

Glenwood Cemetery Revitalization Campaign

Watertown’s Glenwood Cemetery pictured in November 2024. (Kara Dry Photography)

Glenwood Cemetery History

Glenwood Cemetery has been a part of the history of Northern New York’s Catholic parishes for many years.

Father Tobias Glen purchased 44 acres of land at Watertown Center in 1888, opposite Brookside Cemetery, and established St. Patrick’s cemetery. It is now known as Glenwood Cemetery.

Glenwood Cemetery Mausoleum.

The entire Catholic population of Watertown was surveyed in 1979 to determine if there was enough interest to warrant building a mausoleum at Glenwood Cemetery. Based on the responses, the decision was made to go ahead with the project. A 120-by-75-foot structure for 294 crypts was initially planned but due to an increase in sales, the project was enlarged to 450 crypts. The Glenwood Chapel Mausoleum was dedicated June 23, 1981.

To date, more than 90,000 people have been laid to rest in the cemetery and mausoleum. Glenwood has additional acreage to be developed, along with plans for a columbarium.

The Glenwood Cemetery Revitalization Campaign

Our mission is to honor the past and ensure a beautiful future for Glenwood Cemetery. We are committed to fundraising and earning community support to enhance the grounds, preserving the dignity and tranquility of this sacred space for Catholic and non-Catholic denominations for generations to come.

The Glenwood Cemetery Revitalization Campaign focuses on three major priorities, which are:

  • Roadway reconstruction
  • Columbarium construction
  • Office and garage improvements

Together, we strive to create a place of solace and reflection that pays tribute to our history and provides a peaceful resting place for our loved ones. We are teaming with Northern New York Community Foundation for this exciting revitalization of the cemetery. Funds raised will be used solely to improve Glenwood and its property.

Roadway reconstruction is a major priority of the Glenwood Revitalization Campaign. Improvements to roadways highlighted in green will begin in 2025 as soon as funds are available.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What percentage of the funds generated will be used specifically for the Glenwood Cemetery? 100 percent of the funds raised for the campaign are managed by the Northern New York Community Foundation, a trusted public charity dedicated to helping improve the quality of life in our communities since 1929.
  • Is there a long-term plan keep to Glenwood cemetery operating after the campaign has reached its goal? A permanent endowment fund has been established at the Community Foundation to ensure the continued maintenance, operation, and growth of Glenwood.
  • In the brochure it mentions the cost for an office and garage area. What improvements are planned for that area? Office renovations and upgrades. Equipment will be purchased as needed to support maintenance of the cemetery.
  • What is a Columbarium? A Columbarium is a structure that houses the cremated remains of loved ones in a permanent resting place.
  • How many people are employed to maintain the grounds, handle grave openings and maintain the mausoleum? There are two full-time employees and an additional person working 20 hours a week May through August to maintain the 90-acre property.
  • Does the Diocese of Ogdensburg receive a share of the gifts in support of the campaign? No. The Diocese and the Glenwood board agreed that the Community Foundation will steward all proceeds for the sole benefit of Glenwood Cemetery.
  • Will the project begin once goal is achieved? Improvements like road work and paving will begin as soon as enough funds are available.

How do I make a Gift to the Campaign?

Watertown’s Knights of Columbus Council 259 recently made a $10,000 gift to the Glenwood Cemetery Revitalization Campaign. Pictured, from left, Glenwood Committee member Joseph Fusco; Father Mickey Demo, pastor, Blessed Sacrament Parish; Knights of Columbus Council 259 Grand Knight Jim Fraser; and Glenwood Committee members Mike Pierce and David Renzi.

Gifts to the Glenwood Cemetery Revitalization Campaign may be made by check to the Northern New York Community Foundation. Note “Glenwood Campaign” on the memo line and mail to: 131 Washington Street, Watertown, NY 13601. Click the button below to access secure online giving.

How Will my Gift be Recognized?

All leadership gifts to the Glenwood Cemetery Revitalization Campaign will be commemorated with the donor’s name recognized on the project’s monument planned for installation at the cemetery. All donors will be recognized online each month throughout the campaign. Click the button below to view a recent donor list.

Questions? Contact the Glenwood Cemetery Revitalization Campaign Committee

The Glenwood Cemetery Revitalization Campaign Committee is comprised of a 14-member team of volunteers led by Father Mickey Demo, pastor of Watertown’s Blessed Sacrament Parish. The following Committee members are available to answer any questions from prospective donors or members of the public:

Additional Committee members are: Charles Donoghue, Anne Harrienger, Michael Larrabee, Kathy Lettiere, Deacon Kevin Mastellon, Judy Pearson, Patrick Pearson, Paul Pierce, and David Renzi.

Follow us on Facebook

Follow Glenwood Cemetery on Facebook to stay up-to-date on the latest news about the Revitalization Campaign. Click on the icon below to visit us on Facebook.