Cemetery Overview

Amid the ever changing landscape of the Capital District, the CBAJ Cemetery remains a sacred and enduring landmark – a solemn testament to the lives, legacies, and values of the local Jewish community. Located in two areas of the Capital District (Western Avenue and Fuller Road), the cemetery has been the final resting place for thousands since the early 19th century.

The Fuller Road location dates back nearly 200 years, making it one of the oldest Jewish burial grounds in the region. The Western Avenue location, over 100 years old, was originally sold by Wilhelm and Selenia Witbeck in individual segments to various Jewish burial societies.

Today, Congregation Beth Abraham-Jacob is responsible for these two cemetery locations and they have become vital locations not only for burials but also for the Jewish community's connection to their history and their shared values. Many of the first people laid to rest were members of the South End Jewish community which is now known as Pearl Street.

The CBAJ Cemetery is not alone in its endeavors. Over the years, many organizations have partnered to maintain the local Jewish cemeteries – including the Hebrew Farmers Association of Rensselaer County, the Hebrew Farmers Association of Nassau County, Temple Israel of Albany, the Hebrew Tailors Association, Congregation Beth Abraham-Jacob, Congregation Ohav Shalom, Beth Jacob of Cohoes, the Workmen’s Circle, the Independent Benevolent Society, and the Jewish People’s Cemetery.