Friends of The Kensico Cemetery, Inc. (referred to as “Friends of Kensico Cemetery” or simply “Friends”) is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to preserving the historical, cultural, and natural heritage of Kensico Cemetery. Beyond preservation, the Friends seek to foster public understanding and appreciation through educational programs, tours, and community events.

Recognizing the evolving needs of the local community, the Friends are broadening their mission to include philanthropic initiatives that support other deserving organizations across Westchester County.

Support the Friends

You can support by making a tax-deductible contribution.

Checks may be made payable to:
Friends of The Kensico Cemetery, Inc.
PO Box 7
Valhalla, NY 10595-9953

For more information on how to get involved, please contact us at:
914-949-0347
friends@kensico.org

Our 2025 5K Run/Walk will take place on Sunday, October 26, 2025! This year’s event will benefit both Friends of The Kensico Cemetery and the Boys & Girls Club of Northern Westchester. Information on the event and registration can be found here.

Preservation

Established in 1889, Kensico Cemetery serves as a testament to the rich history of those interred there. The monuments and structures not only memorialize lives but also stand as an archive of architectural and cultural history. Friends of Kensico Cemetery is committed to preserving and maintaining these monuments, buildings, and edifices to ensure their historical, cultural, and architectural significance endures for future generations.

Image right: The first burial at Kensico Cemetery: Judge John Fitch, July 1890. Judge Fitch was a United States District Court judge who at one time was appointed by President Abraham Lincoln as Registrar in Bankruptcy, a position he held for many years.

Image bottom: The first burial at Kensico Cemetery: Judge John Fitch, July 1890. Judge Fitch was a United States District Court judge who at one time was appointed by President Abraham Lincoln as Registrar in Bankruptcy, a position he held for many years.

Pathway with mausoleums surrounded by trees with leaves changing color for autumn

Education

Friends of Kensico Cemetery is dedicated to increasing public knowledge and awareness of Kensico’s rich historical, cultural, architectural, and horticultural legacy. Through engaging educational programs including specialized tours, tree walks, lecture series, and workshops, they invite the community to explore and connect with the cemetery’s unique history.

Interested in collaborating on a future event or want to stay updated on upcoming events? Email us at events@kensico.org. And don’t forget to check our Event Calendar for upcoming programs and opportunities to get involved.

Image bottom: Patrick Raftery Assistant Director and Librarian at the Westchester County Historical Society conducting one of our annual spring Historical Tours.

Image left: Patrick Raftery, Assistant Director and Librarian at the Westchester County Historical Society, leading one of our annual spring Historical Tours.

Horticulture

In 2022, The Kensico Cemetery Arboretum achieved Level II Arboretum status, making it the only Level II Arboretum in Westchester County. The Arboretum is home to 101 labeled species of trees and woody plants, nestled among thousands of other trees, shrubs, and ornamental plantings across the cemetery’s 460-acre landscape.

These require meticulous cultivation, pruning, and ongoing care. As part of its mission, Friends of Kensico Cemetery is committed to preserving, maintaining, and expanding Kensico’s rich natural habitat.

Image right: Kousa dogwood (Cornus kousa) in bloom—one of the many species listed on our Arboretum map.

Community

Part of the Friends’ mission is to support charitable organizations that strengthen Westchester County and positively impact our community.

This October, they will host the second annual Friends of Kensico Cemetery 5K Run/Walk through the beautiful 460-acre grounds of The Kensico Cemetery & Arboretum. This event is scheduled for Sunday, October 26, 2025, and will benefit The Boys & Girls Club of Northern Westchester, as well as Friends of Kensico Cemetery.

Save the date!

  • August 12, 2024

    Friends of Kensico Cemetery 5K Run/Walk

    Join Friends of The Kensico Cemetery for a 5k Run or 1.7-mile Walk through scenic paths adorned with fall foliage, featuring a beautiful lake view. Enjoy a catered breakfast, exciting raffle prizes, and great camaraderie                                          [...]

Contact Us

For more information about Friends of Kensico Cemetery, email friends@kensico.org, or call 914-949-0347
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Our cemetery contains a park-like atmosphere with beautiful trees, flowers, and fountains.