Original Jamaica

This memorial commemorates the original Jamaica town burying ground, which was established in 1660. It highlights its historical significance as an early burial site in New York. The plaque also notes that Egbert Benson, who served as the first Attorney General of New York State, was interred there. Benson, born in 1746 and passing in 1833, is a significant figure in the state's early legal history, making his burial place an important site for those interested in the foundational figures of New York State.

The plaque itself was erected in 1936 by the State Education Department, placing it within a tradition of historical markers designed to preserve and publicise local heritage. Such markers often arise from efforts to acknowledge and remember important civic figures and historic locations within communities. During the mid-20th century, there was a growing awareness of the need to document and commemorate the state's colonial and early American past, leading to the placement of numerous informational plaques at sites of historical interest across New York.

The memorial is a blue plaque, indicating its potential designation as a heritage marker. It is located in New York City and can be found at the site of the original Jamaica town burying ground. Visitors should be aware that such plaques are typically affixed to structures or standalone posts in publicly accessible areas. When visiting, one should be respectful of the historical nature of the site and any surrounding property.