
Photos: This Tiny Ulster County Cemetery Has Some Massive History
Some of the greatest mysteries in the Hudson Valley are hiding right before our eyes, like the unbelievable cemetery that hundreds of drivers speed past every single day.
It's no secret that this area of New York is full of history. With homes that were built 100 years before the Revolutionary War and even the oldest intersection in the country, there's always something new to explore.
The Fate of Historic Cemeteries in the Hudson Valley
As time rolls on, many old cemeteries are faced with some difficult predicaments. Headstones that were once near quiet streets have seen those routes turn into major roadways (below). But back to the mysterious plot...
Historic Cemeteries in Ulster County
There's a cemetery in Ulster County that just might have the smallest collection of gravestones in the entire Hudson Valley. The blink-and-you'll-miss-it plots have recently intrigued some local residents.
Read More: Tour the Old Stone School House Cemetery in Highland New York
Small Cemetery on Plattekill-Ardonia Road in Plattekill, NY
The cemetery, located on Plattekill Ardonia Road in Plattekill, NY, is so small that commuters wouldn't be blamed if they had know idea of its existence, even though it's just feet from the road (below).
Questions About Historic Platyekill, NY Cemetery
Despite its size and age, the cemetery is lovingly cared for, and shows evidence of recent mowing (below). Recently, the humble plot of land entered the limelight after a question on an Internet comment board was left about finding the final resting place for a long-lost relative.
Where Is Birdsall Cemetery in Plattekill, NY?
"My husband and I are taking a road trip which has us driving through Plattekill, NY", the post began. They continued with a question that finally shed light on the impressive history of the cemetery:
His 5th Great-Grandmother is buried in Birdsall Ground Cemetery, on the Plattekill-Ardonia Road on the farm of Mr. Birdsall, 1/2 mile north of Plattekill Valley (from a 1931 survey)... Is there anyone familiar with the area that can tell me where to start looking for the Birdsall Farm? Your help is much appreciated.
Luckily, fellow enthusiasts were ready with an answer, and thanks to the aptly-named FindAGrave.com, helped share the location of the small plot north of New Unionville Road.
Read More: Who is Buried in Old Ulster County New York Roadside Cemeteries
Finding Birdsall Cemetery in Plattekill, NY
The story has a happy ending as well. "Only it took me two trips on Plattekill-Ardonia Road before finding the cemetery! Just a few stones on the side of the road... We have located the grave and have photographed it. Thank you again for your interest", the original posted shared.

No matter the county, the Hudson Valley is filled with equally-fascinating gravestones, cemeteries, and family plots. Check out which famous people were buried in the Hudson Valley's oldest cemetery below, and keep scrolling for more destinations in Ulster County, NY.
8 Famous People Buried in the Hudson Valley's Oldest Cemetery
Gallery Credit: Conor Walsh
Old Cemeteries in Ulster County New York
Gallery Credit: Paty Quyn
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