At the heart of Forest Hill Cemetery stands Childs Chapel.

Built in 1869 as a gift from Roxana Childs to the people of Utica, this Gothic Revival treasure was created to ensure that everyone, regardless of wealth or background, could be honored with beauty and respect.

Now, this sacred space needs our help.

After decades of wear, Childs Chapel is in urgent need of restoration. We have secured a generous $392,000 matching grant covering 72 percent of the total cost. To complete the project, we must raise the final $150,000 together.

Inside the chapel, a marble tablet reads:

“This tablet is here placed and inscribed by the Utica Cemetery Association in grateful remembrance of the bounty of Mrs. Roxana Parker Childs, who gave this chapel in memory of her deceased husband, Silas Dickinson Childs. In the same spirit that prompted his generous bequest of a perpetual fund for the graves of the poor interred in this cemetery, she devoted this, her gift, in free and common use forever…”

Why Your Support Matters

Many people do not realize that nonprofit cemeteries like Forest Hill, classified under New York State law as 501(c)(13) organizations, face strict financial constraints. Most of their funds must be held in permanent maintenance accounts, which means they cannot be used for restoration, education, or outreach. They also do not qualify for many of the grants available to other nonprofits.

That is why the Forest Hill Cemetery Preservation Foundation was established. As a separate 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the Foundation can apply for grants, accept tax-deductible donations, and raise the funds needed to preserve Forest Hill’s historic structures, landscapes, and stories.

Your support makes this possible. By giving today, you are helping to restore a historic chapel and continue a legacy of inclusion, remembrance, and public service for generations to come.

Restore Childs Chapel At Forest Hill Cemetery

Support the restoration of a landmark that has served generations.