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Local History

Hartsdale Canine Cemetery

Dr. S. C. Johnson, a veterinarian with offices in New York City, was a kind and compassionate individual. In 1896, responding to the distress of the owner of one of his deceased canine patients, he offered to have the beloved pet buried in the apple orchard on property he owned in Hartsdale. Soon, other animal lovers heard of his generous offer and asked to have their animals given a dignified resting place. The requests grew in number, and soon the 10 acres of orchard land between Washington and Central Avenues were dotted with small wooden markers in memory of dogs, cats, birds, and even a lion. Today, stone and granite markers pay tribute to the memories of "Man's Best Friend."

Photo courtesy of William Blanck