Introduction
Nestled in the Long Island Sound, Hart Island emerges not only as a burial ground for over a million New Yorkers but as a poignant symbol of the city’s evolving narrative. As the island opens its doors to the public, it beckons visitors to explore its rich history and unravel the layers of stories that have been etched into its soil over the last century and a half.
Hart Island’s Historical Significance
Walking among the white metal markers adorned with numbers, one can’t help but feel the weight of the island’s history. Since 1869, Hart Island has been a silent witness to the marginalized, the forgotten, and the unclaimed. People laid to rest here include those who succumbed to poverty, victims of public health crises like the HIV/AIDS epidemic and the recent COVID-19 pandemic, their stories buried alongside them.
Public Access and Parks Department Initiatives
In an effort to bridge the gap between the living and the departed, the Parks Department has taken a bold step by organizing walking tours. These tours, led by the Urban Park Rangers, not only promise a glimpse into the island’s past but also strive to dispel the historical stigmas associated with Hart Island. Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue envisions these tours as a means to educate the public about the island’s role in shaping the city’s narrative.
Historical Context: From Potter’s Field to Public Space
Beyond its role as a potter’s field, Hart Island holds a tapestry of history. The 31st Infantry Unit of U.S. Colored Troops once trained on its shores. It housed reform schools, rehabilitation centers, and a women’s psychiatric hospital—all testaments to the island’s diverse and multifaceted past. Urban Park Ranger Kasha Pazdar notes that, like other isolated landmarks such as Rikers Island and Roosevelt Island’s smallpox hospital, Hart Island served as a place of isolation for societal quarantine.
Isolation and Institutional History
Hart Island’s isolation, once a practical necessity, became a double-edged sword. While it served as a burial ground, it also hosted institutions focused on care and correction. The echoes of these functions linger, a testament to the evolving notions of societal responsibility and compassion.
Redesign and Preservation Efforts
Closed to the public in the 1980s due to vandalism and fires, Hart Island faced a period of neglect. However, the winds of change blew in 2021 when the City Council passed legislation transferring control from the Department of Correction to the Parks Department. This marked the beginning of a broader project aimed at improving the island’s grounds and operations.
The Department of Design and Construction played a pivotal role in this transformation, clearing most dilapidated structures. Notable among the preserved remnants is the shell of an old Catholic church chapel—a structure brimming with historical significance. DDC Commissioner Tom Foley acknowledges the chapel’s current inaccessibility to the public but expresses hope for its future rehabilitation.
Community Response and Appreciation
Local resident Barbara Dolensek, an officer of the City Island Historical Society and the Nautical Museum, reflects on the positive changes she has witnessed. The redesign of Hart Island has not only made it a respectful final resting place but has also removed elements that were disintegrating, creating a safe environment for visitors.
Martin Thompson, with almost two decades of experience on Hart Island, describes it as one of the most beautiful spots in New York City. He emphasizes the transformative nature of visiting loved ones’ gravesites, providing closure and altering preconceived dark views of the island.
Contemporary Use and Services
Contrary to misconceptions, Hart Island remains an active burial site. Families incur no fees for burials, and the island serves as a haven for those seeking solace in its tranquil grounds. Martin Thompson, the Human Resources Administration’s executive director for operations for Hart Island, emphasizes the importance of these visits as moments of closure for grieving families.
Visiting Hart Island: Tours and Access
For those intrigued by its history, walking tours are available through a lottery system on the Parks Department website. Limited to around 30 people per visit, these tours provide a two-and-a-half-hour exploration of the island by foot. Parks Department staffers stress the significance of showing appropriate respect, especially when encountering funeral services, highlighting the delicate balance between exploration and reverence.
Conclusion
Hart Island’s metamorphosis from a secretive burial ground to an accessible public space stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to preserving its history. The juxtaposition of tranquility and historical significance makes it a unique destination for those seeking connection, understanding, and a moment of reflection.
FAQs about Hart Island
Q: Can families visit their loved ones’ graves on Hart Island?
A: Yes, families can visit, and the island remains an active burial site. No fees are charged for burial services.
Q: How can one search for ancestors or loved ones buried on Hart Island?
A: Contact the Human Resources Administration for assistance, though records before 1977 may be limited due to a fire.
Q: Are there age restrictions for the walking tours?
A: The walking tours are open to all ages, but participants should be prepared for a two-and-a-half-hour exploration by foot.
Q: Can I bring a camera on the tour?
A: Yes, cameras are allowed, but visitors are encouraged to be respectful, especially during encounters with funeral services.