Jesse Chew Family Cemetery in Sewell, NJ

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Jesse Chew Family Cemetery in Sewell, NJ

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03/14/2026

Every now and then, something happens at the Jesse Chew Family Cemetery that reminds me why preserving these places matters so much.

A few days ago, my trail camera—which I keep on the property simply to monitor its condition and to keep an eye on vandals—captured something I did not expect. Two young women had stopped by the cemetery and, while looking around, noticed a large fallen limb and several broken branches inside the fenced area.

Instead of simply walking past, they took the time to move the limb and clear the debris away from the graves.

It may seem like a small act, but to someone who has been caring for this historic family cemetery for the past 14 years, it meant a great deal. In all that time, I have never witnessed a moment like this. The camera only captured a few snapshots, but they were enough to show a simple and thoughtful act of respect.

These old burial grounds represent real families, real lives, and an important piece of our local history. Seeing younger visitors show that kind of care and consideration was a wonderful and unexpected surprise.

To the two young women who took the time to do that—thank you. Your kindness did not go unnoticed.

02/08/2026

Update – Sunday, February 8, 2026: The land all about us has been snow-covered, and the temperature has been frigid for 14 days. It has been difficult for many of us humans to get about and to cope with the winter weather. I can only imagine what the wildlife is doing to survive. I continue to bring food to the deer and other creatures at this special place. Today, it is sliced apples and a new feed block. The deer know to come here, as it is safe within its bounds.

11/15/2025

"We will be here forever, our bodies in this soil, our memories in your heart. Laid here so long ago, we trust that you will continue to protect us, care for us, and one day meet us when your days are through." - JRG

10/22/2025

One of Mantua Township's oldest landmarks, in the glow of the Fall season. This family burial ground was established by Jesse Chew and formally dedicated in accordance with his will, written on February 6, 1808.

09/01/2025

Update – Monday, September 1, 2025: Today, I gave an impromptu tour of the cemetery. It was great to share the history of the property and those resting here with visitors.

07/20/2025

Update – Sunday, July 20, 2025: The cutting season has been intense so far. The rain each day, and then the sunshine brings on some amazing summer growth. Probably ideal for the farmers. And yes, the New Jersey corn and tomatoes are excellent this year. The property remains in good order. As much as nature wants to reclaim it, we continue to maintain it in its rightful state: respected, remembered, and restored.

05/25/2025

Jesse G. Eastlack was born in 1839 to Joseph and Rebecca Eastlack.

Jesse worked on the farm until August 17, 1861, when he enlisted in the American Civil War Union Army, to serve with Company H, 4th Infantry Regiment, New Jersey Volunteers.

In my research, I followed the South Mountain Civil War Battlefield points of interest and was able to locate the approximate area where Private Jesse G. Eastlack was mortally injured during the Battle at Crampton's Gap, Maryland. It was here, on September 14, 1862, that he fell, and was then taken to Frederick, Maryland for medical care. He remained in Frederick to his death from his injuries on March 27, 1863, at the age of 24. This information was found during a visit to the National Museum of Civil War Medicine in Downtown Frederick, Maryland.

Private Jesse G. Chew was originally buried at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Frederick City, Maryland. He was later brought home and now rests in the Jesse Chew Family Cemetery in Sewell, NJ. with his parents, his grand-parents (Joseph and Mary (Chew) Eastlack) and his great grandparents (Jesse and Mary Chew).

It is estimated that over 698,000 soldiers died due to battle wounds and disease during the Civil War. Approximately 16,000 Civil War soldiers are buried at Arlington National Cemetery. Other soldiers are interred in additional national cemeteries, on the battlefields, in military hospital grounds, and in local cemeteries and graveyards.

Most only think of the mass of white marble headstones standing at our national cemeteries. This focus can take away from our recognition of the individual soldier, those who were brought home to be buried in the circle of their family. In Mantua Township, we have several soldiers whose bodies were returned home and were final buried in our quiet (some hidden) hometown cemeteries and graveyards.

No matter how many years have passed, we should remember ALL who have died in the name of peace and freedom.

03/16/2025

Update – Sunday, March 16, 2025: The property fared well through the winter. Spring cleaning was a breeze on this windy day. Looking forward to the days ahead as we continue in the care of this sacred place.

11/24/2024

Update – Sunday, November 24, 2024: There was a time when this location was surrounded by vast timber and farmlands, and orchards. The homes were far and few between, as most landowners possessed tens, if not hundreds of acres each.

Dedicated and reserved through the will of Jesse Chew in 1808, this family cemetery has witnessed the changing of the times for well-over 200 years. Today, the property is as close to looking as it did when the Chew family was prominent and able to readily care for it. Many of the grave markers are lost to time, and many of those resting here remain unknown. However, what we do know tells us how important the residents of the cemetery were in their day and the impact they had on what we see and experience locally today.

As I state often, it is very important to maintain the tangible pieces of our history, be it the cemeteries, graveyards, and the significant, old structures and artifacts. The past is counting on us to do this.

And finally, there is a regular visit by our friends in nature. The deer make it a point to stop here daily to take in peace and safety, and to play and graze. We have been enjoying seeing them and find great joy in bringing them treats. In the attached pictures you will see the second batch of pumpkins and apples that were scattered about today. I think about how the deer we see here today are possibly related to those that Jesse Chew and his family would have seen, hunted, and partaken of for their nutrition. The lifecycle of all things upon this earth is such a wonder.

09/08/2024

Update – Sunday, September 8, 2024: It is always a pleasure to be here, caring for this sacred property and the history that it holds. Today was no exception. To think about those who are buried here and how it was in their time, when life was so very different compared to how we live today. As early as 1800, Jesse Chew carefully planned the location of his family burial ground, knowing that it would be safe and sound forever.

I have recently been informed that there are plans underway for a possible expansion of the industrial section of this neighborhood. It seems the preliminary work is underway to secure the environmental permits that may allow the owner to begin engineering and design of a building(s) and associated driveways and parking area.

Fortunately, it appears that this potential development will not affect the cemetery. As open land is scarce and none is being made, the more challenging properties are being pursued by developers. This is what is happening in our area. Let us hope that this project and the push for a commuter train that would run within one hundred feet of this historic location, respect and avoid disturbing those that rest here.

08/19/2024

Update - August 19, 2024: We spent the evening at the cemetery, catching up on yard work and giving a tour to a passerby. As small and simple as this historic location is, it has lots of activity. The below picture of the deer is from this morning, followed by some lawn cutting, a visitor, and the finished product. All is well here.

Address

Atlantic Avenue
Sewell, NJ
08080

Telephone

+18566309704

Website

http://gellenthin.com/

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