Mr. Sandler's recent NYC History trip to Green-Wood Cemetery with his NYC History class was an unforgettable journey into the city's past. Students had an amazing time exploring Victorian-era attitudes toward death and mourning while surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of one of New York’s most historic cemeteries. They marveled at stunning mausoleums—and even had the rare opportunity to step inside one—as well as explore the eerie catacombs.
Along the way, students encountered the gravesites of famous New Yorkers we've studied in class, including political boss William "Boss" Tweed, composer Leonard Bernstein, and inventor Samuel Morse. They also reflected at memorials honoring Revolutionary War and Civil War soldiers, making powerful connections to our curriculum.
In addition to well-known figures, we uncovered lesser-known stories like the tragic Brooklyn theater fire of the late 19th century that claimed over 200 lives. The day was a perfect blend of art, architecture, memory, and local history—an ideal experience for any student of New York City’s rich and complex past. See a full size collage here.
