Frequently asked questions

When is the cemetery open?

In general, the cemetery is open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The office is open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Monday through Friday. Before making a trip to visit the cemetery, please call the office at (203) 787-1443 to verify visiting hours for that day.

Visitors should note that the last daily entry time is 3:30 p.m. in order for the staff to complete a patrol of the grounds and secure the cemetery by the 4 p.m. closing time. Thank you for your cooperation.

Is the cemetery open to visit as a place for personal contemplation and reflection?

Yes. Many people who live or work in the area visit the cemetery for just such a purpose.

Are burial plots available?

Yes, many are available. 

For information about availability and fees,
please call (203) 787-1443 or email Seeley Jennings at 
seeley.jennings@grovestreetcemetery.org or write to Seeley Jennings, 227 Grove Street, New Haven, CT 06511-6806.

What is the cost of a burial plot?

As of November 2020, the price for a single grave plot is $7,500. Half grave plots are available at $4,000.

Is perpetual care included in the price of the plot?

Yes. The cemetery’s staff provides perpetual care as part of the purchase price.

Are there groups of plots available?

Yes, although the number and availability may change. Generally, there are from two to four contiguous plots available in certain locations in the cemetery.

Are there restrictions on who may be buried in the Grove Street Cemetery?

No. The cemetery is non-sectarian and places no restrictions on who may become a plot owner or who may be buried there. Race, color, creed, and gender are not factors relating to the ownership of a burial plot.

Does the cemetery accept for burial the remains of someone whose body has been cremated?

Yes.

What is the relationship of the cemetery to Yale University?

The Grove Street Cemetery has no affiliation with Yale University, though a number of Yale presidents, alumni, and members of the “Yale family” are buried in the cemetery.

Does an individual have to have been connected to Yale in any way to be buried in the cemetery?

No.

Does an individual have to belong to any historical organization or genealogical society to qualify for burial in the cemetery?

No.

Are military funerals permitted in the cemetery?

Yes. Military funerals are held in the cemetery each year. Such burial services are often accompanied by a gun salute as well as the playing of taps provided by local Armed Forces personnel. Arrangements for military funerals are made through the offices of the funeral director selected by the family.

Who manages the cemetery?

Seeley Jennings is the superintendent of the Grove Street Cemetery. He and his staff oversee the daily operation of the cemetery including its maintenance and arrangements for burials.
 
Each owner of a burial plot is termed a Proprietor of the Grove Street Cemetery. Additionally, the Standing Committee of the Proprietors oversees the operation of the cemetery and supervises the management of its finances to ensure the continued fiscal soundness of the cemetery. The Standing Committee consists of individuals who are elected annually.
 
Please consult the Rules of the Cemetery Grounds document for additional information.