A story is told that the purchase of the property came about when Sam Newman, a board member of the synagogue, went scouting for land to be used as a cemetery. His journey was hampered by a snowstorm. He and his horse were forced to spend the night at the property, then occupied by Edward Reidfleisch. The two men arranged for the sale with the condition that Reidfleisch family would remain on the property as caretakers. Newman experienced the effect of “no good deed remains unpunished” as fellow board members were not in favor of the purchase. However, Newman prevailed and the Reidfleisch family was involved with the cemetery for several generations until the 1960’s.

The cemetery was established by the Anshe Emeth Beth Tefilo Congregation, today known as Park Synagogue. The cemetery began with twenty-five acres.

William Hyman buried on June 3, 1914.

Beachwood was incorporated as an independent village after seceding from Warrensville Township.

Oer Chodosh purchased 2 acres of land.

Liberty Aid Society purchased 2 acres of land.

Zemach Zedek purchased one acre of land.

Anshe Emeth acquired 7.3 acres at the south- eastern end of the property.

The aging farmhouse located on the property was torn down and replaced by a one-story building housing an office, service garage, public restrooms and two apartments for the caretakers.

Road improvements and a small purchase of property by the State of Ohio led to an enhanced design for the front entrance. Twelve-foot travertine marble pillars held iron gates embossed with the Hebrew letter shin. A dedication to Sadie and Sam Rosenthal, longtime members is also evident.

Ohr Chodesh transferred their deed when the congregation merged with Young Israel.

Beth-Am/Community Temple transferred their deed to B’nai Jeshurun due to a consolidation of the two congregations.

The office and residence built in1958 was demolished and replaced. There is no residence for a caretaker in the new building.

Young Israel/Ohr Chodosh transferred their deed to Bet Olam Cemetery Association.