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By Nicole Seiferth

On April 3, a determined group of rose enthusiasts braved an early spring downpour to plant two new rose gardens at the Trinity Cemetery on 155th Street and Broadway. The gardens were a gift from the Heritage Rose Foundation in honor of the numerous 19th century rose gardeners and horticulturists buried in the cemetery.

Yolanda Rivera, manager of the Trinity Cemetery, was approached by the Heritage Rose Foundation about the rose garden several months ago.

The first stop of the morning was at the grave of George F. Harison, whose "Harison's Yellow" rose became known as the "Yellow Rose of Texas," one of the most popular variety of roses ever created. The roses will be planted at other creators' gravesites and also at the corners of 155th and Broadway and 153rd and Broadway.

Yolanda sees the roses and other beautification projects in and around the Trinity Cemetery as far more than landscaping projects.

"The idea is to bring people here," she says. "The cemetery is one of the best kept secrets in Manhattan."

So next time you're longing to see a little green and get away from the bustle of the city, don't cross a river. Head uptown (a short ride on the 1 train) to the Trinity Cemetery.

Nicole Seiferth is assistant editor for web and parish publications at Trinity Wall Street.