The Hamilton Cross

This tall, stunningly-detailed stands across from a row of private mausoleums just south of Cypress Waters (the ornamental pond at the center of the Cemetery's South Ridge).  Designed by Marcus T. Reynolds, the architect who designed some of downtown Albany's most recognizable buildings (as well as the lodge at the Cemetery's South Gate), it marks the Hamilton family plot.

Executed by sculptor John Francis Brines, it was commissioned in 1900 by Andrew and Jessie Hamilton in memory of their only son who had died at the age of seven.  Andrew and Jessie would also be laid to rest here and, tragically, their three daughters would join them here in 1912 after being killed in a terrible train wreck over the Saugatuck River at Westport, Connecticut. 

The soaring monument is heavily carved on both the front and back.  It features the intricate strap-work characteristic of Celtic crosses along with a myriad of traditional Christian symbols - ranging from Christ surrounded by the Four Evangelists to the ancient pelican piercing its breast to feed its young.