Mae West Gravesite

Cypress Hills Cemetery

Cypress Hills Cemetery, established in 1851, is a historic burial ground that spans both Brooklyn and Queens in New York City. Its picturesque landscape features rolling hills, mature trees, and meticulously maintained lawns, offering a serene environment for visitors. The cemetery is accessible via two main entrances: one at 833 Jamaica Avenue in Brooklyn and another at Cooper Avenue in Glendale, Queens. (brooklyneagle.com)

The cemetery is the final resting place for several notable individuals, including baseball legend Jackie Robinson, artist Piet Mondrian, and actress Mae West. Robinson, who broke Major League Baseball's color barrier in 1947, is interred here, with his gravestone bearing the inscription: "A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives." (brooklyneagle.com)

Piet Mondrian, the Dutch-born abstract painter renowned for his contributions to modern art, also rests in Cypress Hills Cemetery. His grave is situated on a gently sloping hill, offering a view of midtown Manhattan's skyline in the distance. (brooklyneagle.com)

Mae West, the iconic actress and playwright, was born in Brooklyn on August 17, 1893. She gained fame for her bold and witty performances in both theater and film, becoming a symbol of sexual liberation and empowerment. West passed away on November 22, 1980, in Hollywood, California. Her body was returned to New York for interment in the West family crypt at Cypress Hills Abbey, a mausoleum within the cemetery. The crypt is located in the Queens section of the cemetery, which straddles the Brooklyn-Queens border. (findagrave.com)

Visitors to Cypress Hills Cemetery can explore its rich history and the diverse cultural heritage reflected in its various sections. The cemetery is open daily from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, providing ample time for those interested in paying respects or learning more about the individuals interred there. (nyslittree.org)