Holy Cross Cemetery North Arlington New Jersey

So, there I was, strolling through North Arlington, New Jersey, on a sunny afternoon, when I stumbled upon this massive, iron gate. It was like something out of a Gothic novel, all dark and imposing. I mean, who can resist a good old cemetery, right? And thus began my little adventure at Holy Cross Cemetery.

Now, before you start thinking I've got some weird fascination with graveyards, let me tell you, this place is no ordinary cemetery. It's more like an open-air museum, a peaceful oasis tucked away in the heart of North Arlington. It's been around since 1888, which makes it older than some of the trees in Central Park. Can you believe that?

History's Skeleton Closet

Holy Cross Cemetery has seen its fair share of history. It's the final resting place of some pretty big names. We're talking about folks like Frank Rizzo, the former Philadelphia mayor, and Matty "The Horse" Ianniello, a notorious mobster. I mean, you can almost hear the stories these stones could tell, can't you?

But it's not all gangsters and politicians. Holy Cross is also home to a bunch of everyday folks who've left their mark on the world in their own way. There are military veterans, teachers, firefighters - people who've made North Arlington what it is today. It's like a who's who of the town's history, all gathered in one place.

Art in Stone

But enough about the who, let's talk about the what. Holy Cross is like an outdoor art gallery, with sculptures and monuments that would make any museum curator green with envy. There are angels, crosses, even a life-sized statue of Pope John Paul II. It's like walking through a history of religious art, isn't it?

And the best part? You can wander around and admire all this beauty for free. No admission fees, no guided tours (unless you count the friendly squirrels). Just you, your imagination, and a whole lot of history. It's like stepping back in time, isn't it?

More Than Just a Cemetery

But Holy Cross isn't just about the past. It's also a place of peace and reflection. It's where families go to remember loved ones, where people go to think, to meditate. It's a green space in the middle of a bustling town, a place where nature and history coexist.

So, the next time you're in North Arlington, why not take a stroll through Holy Cross Cemetery? It's not your typical tourist attraction, I'll give you that. But it's a piece of the town's history, a piece of art, a piece of peace. And who knows, you might just find it as fascinating as I did.

Just remember, dress for the weather, and maybe bring a map. It's easy to get lost in all that history, isn't it?