International Association of Jewish Genealogical Societies - Cemetery Project

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ROMANIA

See ROMANIA before reading individual towns.


All descriptions that follow with a "RO-CE" and a number are from the Survey of Historic Jewish Sites and Monuments in Romania sponsored by the U.S. Commission for the Preservation of America's Heritage Abroad.

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THE CEMETERIES "B-Bi"

BABADAG: judet Tulcea
The town is located at 4454 2843, 132.5 miles ENE of Bucharest and 70 km from Constanta. Present town population is 5,000-25,000 with no Jews.

The Jewish population by census was 62 in 1900 and 106 in 1930. The cemetery was established in 19th century. Last known burial was 1945. The unlandmarked Orthodox cemetery is 5 km from the congregation that used it.

The isolated suburban hill has no sign or marker. Reached by a public road, access is open to all with no wall, fence, or gate. Approximate pre- and post-WWII size is 300 m x 170 m. 20-100 stones are visible. 20-100 stones are in original location. 1-20 stones are not in original location. 50%-75% of the stones are toppled or broken. Location of stones removed from the cemetery is unknown. Vegetation overgrowth in the cemetery is a seasonal problem preventing access. Water drainage is good all year.

The oldest known gravestone dates from the end of 19th century. The 19th and 20th century marble, granite, limestone, and sandstone gravestones have Hebrew inscriptions. Some have traces of painting on their surfaces, iron decorations or letting, bronze decorations or lettering, and other metallic elements. Some have portraits on stones.

The national Jewish community owns the property used for Jewish cemetery only. Adjacent properties are agricultural. Rarely, local residents stop. The cemetery was vandalized occasionally in the last ten years. No maintenance. No care now. No structures. Security and vandalism are serious threats. Weather erosion is a moderate threat.

Lucian Nastasă, Clinicilor Str., no. 19, Cluj, Romania, tel. 064/190107. Email: Nastasălucian@hotmail.com visited the site and completed the survey on 12 July 2001.

Lucian Nastasă interviewed Andrei Alexandru, Str. Stejarului 41, Babadag, judet Tulcea. Phone: 040/561656 on 8 July 2001. [January 2003]


BABASESTI: Satu Mare County, Transylvania
The cemetery is located in Babasesti, 3982, com. Mediesu Aurit, judet Satu Mare, Romania, 746 2306, 271.2 miles NNW of Bucharest and 21 km from Satu Mare. Alternate name: Szamosberencze (Hungarian.) Present town population is under 1,000 with no Jews.

The 1880 Jewish population by census was 43; by 1900 census was 24, and in 1930 was 13. In May 1944, the Jews were gathered in the ghetto of Satu Mare and on May 19, 22, 26, 29, 30, 31, and June 1 were deported to Auschwitz. The unlandmarked Orthodox The cemetery was established at end of the 19th century. Last known burial was 2000

The rural/agricultural flat land, part of a municipal cemetery, has no sign or marker. Reached by a public road, access is open to all. A fence with a non-locking gate surrounds the site. Approximate pre-WWII size is unknown. Approximate post-WWII size is 33 x26 m. 1-20 stones are visible. 1-20 stones are not in original location. 25%-50% of the stones are toppled or broken. Stones removed from the cemetery are probably in the farms. Vegetation overgrowth in the cemetery is not a problem. Water drainage is good all year. The oldest known gravestone dates from end of the 19th century. The 19th and 20th century marble, granite, limestone, sandstone, and concrete flat shaped, smoothed and inscribed, and carved relief-decorated tombstones and multi-stone monuments have Hebrew inscriptions. No known mass graves.

The local Jewish community owns the property used for Jewish cemetery only. Adjacent properties are in village residential setting with houses, gardens, orchards, and pastures. Rarely, private Jewish or non-Jewish visitors stop. The cemetery was not vandalized in the last ten years or occasionally in the last ten years. [sic] Maintenance has been cleaning stones and clearing vegetation. Current care is regular unpaid caretaker. No structures. Weather erosion is a moderate threat.

Claudia Ursutiu, Pietroasa Str. no. 21, 3400 Cluj Napoca, Romania, tel. 0040-64-151073 visited the site and completed the survey in July 2000 using the following documentation:

Claudia and Adrian Ursutiu interviewed Banyai Olga, noteworthy Jewish residents of the community [sic], Babasesti. [January 2003]



BABCA: see BABTA
BABDIU: used the cemetery at Maia

BABENI (Salaj county)
47°18' 23°24', 236.7 miles NNW of Bucharest and 20 km from Jibou. The alternate Hungarian name is Aranymezo.The cemetery is near the village. Town's current population is 500-1000 with no Jews.
The Jewish population by census was 33 in 1850, 45 in 1857, 53 in 1880, 60 in 1900, 68 in 1910, and 87 in 1930. In May 1944, the Jews were gathered in the Cehei ghetto, then in Simleul Silvaniei, and on May 31, June 3, 6 were deported to Auschwitz. The unlandmarked Orthodox cemetery dates from 19th century. The last known Jewish burial was 20th century.
      The rural/agricultural flat land, separate but near other cemeteries, has no sign or marker.
      Reached by a public road, access is open to all via fence and non-locking gate. The pre- and post-WWII size of the cemetery is 25 m x 15 m. 1-20 in original and 20-100 not in original location. 25%-50% of the stones are toppled or broken. No stones were removed from the cemetery (probably.)
      Vegetation overgrowth in the cemetery is a seasonal problem preventing access. Water drainage is good all year. No sections. The 19th and 20th century boulders, flat shaped and smoothed and inscribed gravestones. Inscriptions are in Hebrew. No known mass graves. The national Jewish community owns the site used for Jewish cemetery purposes only. Adjacent properties are agricultural. Occasional clearing or cleaning by individuals is the care given. No structures. Vegetation is a moderate threat: a lot of grass disturbing the graves.
      Cosmina Popa, Tatra str., no. 4, tel. 064/ 128764, Cluj -Napoca, 3400 and Ioana Oprea, Bd. 21 Decembrie, 13-15, 064/190849, Cluj-Napoca, 3400 completed the survey and visited the site on September 30 , 2000.
Oprea Ioana & Popa Cosmina interviewed Grad Cornel, Inspector of Culture in Zalau and from personal observations.

BABTA: Satu Mare County, Transylvania
The cemetery is located in Babta, 3978, com. Bogdand, judet Satu Mare, 4728 2256, 258.7 miles NW of Bucharest and 24 km from Cehu Silvaniei. Alternate name: Babca (Hungarian). Present town population is under 1,000 with no Jews.

The 1880 Jewish population by census was 37, by 1900 census was 31, and in 1930 was 17. In May 1944, the Jews were gathered in the ghetto of Satu Mare and on May 19, 22, 26, 29, 30, 31, and June 1 were deported to Auschwitz. The unlandmarked Orthodox The cemetery was established at end of the 19th century. Last known burial was inter-war period.

The hill and hillside, part of a municipal cemetery, has no sign or marker. Reached by a public road, access is open to all. A fence with a non-locking gate surrounds the site. Approximate pre-WWII size is unknown. Approximate post-WWII size is 50 x 9 m. 1-20 stones are visible, some not in original location. 50%-75% of the stones are toppled or broken. Location of stones removed from the cemetery is unknown. Vegetation overgrowth in the cemetery is not a problem. Water drainage is good all year.

Cannot determine if cemetery has/had special sections. The oldest known gravestone dates from 1900. The marble, limestone, and sandstone flat shaped and smoothed and inscribed common gravestones have Hebrew and Hungarian inscriptions. No known mass graves. The local Jewish community owns the property used for Jewish cemetery only. Adjacent properties are residential. Rarely, private Jewish or non-Jewish visitors stop. The never vandalized cemetery maintenance has been cleaning stones and clearing vegetation. Current care is regular unpaid caretaker. No structures. Weather erosion is a moderate threat.
Claudia Ursutiu, Pietroasa Str. no. 21, 3400 Cluj Napoca, Romania, tel. 0040-64-151073 visited the site and completed the survey on 28 July 2000 using the following documentation:

Claudia and Adrian Ursutiu interviewed Chisu Ioan, no. 285, 28. 07. 2000, Babta. [January 2003]


BACAU: *
REFERENCE: Ruth Gruber. Jewish Heritage Travel: A Guide to East-Central Europe. New York: John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 1992. P. 201; 210-211
     Located at 46°34' 26°54'. President of Jewish Community, Mitica Cojocaru, and Miss Caciularu have the community death register entitled Comunitatae Evreilor Bacau Repertoar Pentru Decese that is alphabetical by surname, covering the years 1871-1961. Each page has columns for year of death, surname, given name, group number in the cemetery, row and grave number, and sometimes age. There is a non-Jewish caretaker at the cemetery. Paul Pascal has a layout of the cemetery. Source: Paul Pascal
     http://www.rotravel.com/counties/bacau/map.htm is county map. [December 2000]
BACĂU (I): (Bacău judet) US Commission No. _
The cemetery is located at str. Ghioceilor 15, Bacău judet, Moldavia region at 46°34' 26°57', 55 km. from Piatra Neamt. Present town population is over 100,000 with 5,000-25,000 Jews.       The 1772-1774 Census registered 5 Jewish families, the 1820 Census registered 108 families. The 1852 Census registered 504 Jewish inhabitants. The 1930 Census registered 9424 Jewish inhabitants. The first mentions about Jewish inhabitants are from the beginning of the 18th century. The Register of Chevra Kadisha begins with the year 1774. The first leader of the Community is mentioned in 1794. The community was officially recognized in 1857. In 1864, there were 14 synagogues, and in 1939, 25. In 1941, the Jews were deported to Transnistria. Prominent residents include rabbis: Ithac Botosaner 1803-1858; Alter Ioines ( 1858-1873); Alter Lobel (1873-1891); Betalel Tvi Safran (1905-1929); Mose Blanc (1902-1944); Chief-rabbi Alexandru Safran; I. M. Marilus (1950-1961). The Jewish cemetery was established at the end of the 17th century. The last known Jewish burial in this Orthodox cemetery was in the 20th century. Faraoani (Bacău judet) and Hemeius (Bacău judet) used this unlandmarked cemetery. The isolated, flat, urban cemetery location has no sign or marker. Reached by crossing public property, a continuous masonry wall and a gate that locks surround the site.
      The pre- and post-WWII size of the site is 120 m X 70 m. 100-500 gravestones are visible in the cemetery with 20-100 not in original location. Less than 25% are toppled or broken. Vegetation and water drainage are not problems.
      The granite, limestone, sandstone, and other material tombstones date from the 18th century. Some of the rough stones or boulders, flat shaped stones, finely smoothed and inscribed stones, and flat stones with carved relief decoration have portraits on stones and/or Hebrew inscriptions. The national Jewish community owns the property. Adjacent properties are recreational and an elder care facility. Compared to 1939, the cemetery boundaries enclose a smaller area due to new roads, a housing development, and a public park.
      The cemetery was vandalized prior to WWII, but not in the last ten years. Care includes annual clearing of vegetation and repair of fence and gate. Current care is occasional clearing or cleaning by authorities by an unpaid caretaker. No structures. Weather erosion, pollution, vegetation, vandalism, and incompatible nearby development are moderate threats.
      Lucian Nastasa, Clinicilor str., no. 19, Cluj, Romania, tel. 064/190107. Email: nastasalucian@hotmail.com completed the survey on July 20, 2000 using the following documentation: He visited on July 18, 2000 and interviewed Chiriac Daniel, str. Alexei Tolstoi no. 16, Bacău. July 18, 2000. [June 2002]
BACĂU (II): (Bacău judet) US Commission No. _
      The cemetery is located at str. Alexei Tolstoi no. 16, Bacău, Bacău judet, Moldavia region at 46°34' 26°57', 55 km. from Piatra Neamt.
      See BACĂU I for government and town history information.

This unlandmarked Orthodox Jewish century was established at the end of the 19th century. The last known Jewish burial in cemetery was in June 2000. Livezi (Bacău judet); Faraoani (Bacău judet); Letea Veche (Bacău); and Buhusi (Bacău judet) used this cemetery, 1 km. from the Bacau congregation.

The urban, flat cemetery location is separate, but near other cemeteries. A plaque in Romanian and Jewish symbols on the gate or wall mark the site. Reached by turning directly off a public road, access is open with permission. A continuous masonry wall and a gate that locks surround the cemetery.

200 m X 150 m is the pre- and post-WWII size of the property. About 20,000 tombstones are visible in the cemetery in original location. More than 75% are toppled or broken. Vegetation overgrowth in the cemetery is a seasonal problem, preventing access. Water drainage is not a problem.

The cemetery has special sections for men, unmarried men, and children. Tombstones date from 1917. The marble, granite, limestone, and sandstone are flat shaped stones. finely smoothed and inscribed stones. flat stones with carved relief decoration, double tombstones, sculpted tombstones, and multistone monuments. The cemetery has tombstones with traces of painting on their surfaces, with iron decorations or lettering, with other metallic elements, portraits on stones, and/or metal fences around graves.

Inscriptions on tombstones are in Hebrew, Romanian, Yiddish, and German. The cemetery contains special memorial monuments to Holocaust victims and Jewish soldiers.

The national Jewish community owns the property used only for Jewish cemetery purposes. Adjacent properties are Greek-Orthodox and Catholic cemeteries and commercial or industrial property. Compared to 1939, the cemetery boundaries enclose the same area. Frequently, organized individual tours, private visitors (Jewish or non-Jewish), and local residents visit. Care of the never vandalized cemetery includes re-erection of stones, patching of broken stones, cleaning of stones, clearing of vegetation- every year, and fixing of fence. Jewish individuals within the country, Jewish individuals abroad, Jewish groups within country, and Jewish groups abroad were responsible for restoration done in 1960-1970 and every year after controls and in June 2000. Jewish Congregation of Bacău pays for a regular caretaker.

Within the cemetery are a pre-burial house and other structures. Within the preburial house are a tahara, catafalque, and wall inscriptions. Pollution is a moderate threat. Weather erosion and vegetation are slight threats.

Lucian Nastasa, Clinicilor str., no. 19, Cluj, Romania, tel. 064/190107. Email: nastasalucian@hotmail.com completed the survey on July 20, 2000 using the following documentation:

He visited on July 18, 2000 and interviewed Chiriac Daniel, str. Alexei Tolstoi no. 16, Bacău. July 18, 2000. [June 2002]

BACESTI: (Vaslui judet) US Commission No. _  
The cemetery is located at com. Bacesti, Vaslui judet, Vaslui judet, Moldavia region at 46º50' 27º15', 27 km from Roman (Neamt judet). Present town population is 1,000-5,000 with no Jews.       The 1899 Census registered 18 Jewish inhabitants. The 1930 Census registered 460 Jewish inhabitants. Prominent residents include Iehuda Leib, Iehosua Hesil, and Mose Itac-scholar rabbis. This Jewish cemetery was established in the 19th century. Noteworthy resident: Iehosua Hesil (1888), scholar rabbi. The last known Jewish burial was in 1950.
      The unlandmarked Orthodox cemetery is 500 m. from the congregation that used it. The isolated rural-agricultural hillside cemetery location has no sign, but has Jewish symbols on the gate or wall. Reached by turning directly off a public road, access is open with permission. A continuous fence and a locking gate surround the site.
      The pre- and post-WWII size is 120mx180m. 100-500 gravestones are visible. 20-100 are not in original location. More than 75% are toppled or broken. Vegetation and water drainage are not problems.
      The cemetery is divided into special sections for men, Cohanim, and children. Tombstones date from the end of the 19th century. The marble, granite, limestone, sandstone, and other materials memorial markers are rough stones or boulders, flat shaped stones, finely smoothed and inscribed stones, and flat stones with carved relief decoration. Some have portraits on the stones and/or Hebrew, German, and Romanian inscriptions. The national Jewish community owns the property now used for agricultural purposes. (crops or animal grazing). Adjacent properties are Sain Vasile and Munteanu Elena (agricultural). Compared to 1939, the cemetery boundaries enclose the same area. Occasionally, private Jewish or non-Jewish visitors stop.
      The never vandalized cemetery receives annual vegetation clearing by a regular paid caretaker (use of land for agriculture.) No structures. Weather erosion, pollution, and vegetation are slight threats. Lucian Nastasa, Clinicilor str., no. 19, Cluj, Romania, tel. 064/190107. Email: nastasalucian@hotmail.com completed the survey on July 21, 2000 using the following documentation: He visited July 18, 2000 and interviewed Munteanu C.Nicolae, com. Bacesti 32, Vaslui judet. Phone: 283. July 18, 2000. [June 2002]

BAGOS: see BOGHIS
BAJ: see BOIU

BAIA MARE:  
REFERENCE: Ruth Gruber. Jewish Heritage Travel: A Guide to East-Central Europe. New York: John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 1992. -201, 211
     Located at 47°40' 23°35". Alternate name: Baja Mare/Nagy Banya/Nagybanya
http://www.baiamare.ro is Baia Mare Online. [December 2000]

BAIA SPRIE: Reference Number RO/MM/03
Alternate Hungarian name: Felsobanya. Located in Maramures County at 47°40' 23°42', approximately 8.7 km. E of Baia Mare. From Baia Mare head approximately 8km in the direction of Baia Sprie. Before entering Baia Sprie proper, there is a road that heads to the left directly across the street from the "Ocul Silvic Baia Sprie" building. A little more than .5 km down on the right hand side of the road is a small footbridge traversing the stream. Cossed the bridge; turn left and walk about fifty meters up the dirt road. The cemetery is clearly visible on the right hand side of this road (the site is also accessible by car by one of two larger bridges either above or below the site).

Baia Sprie was not in Maramures County in 1850. 1880 total population: 5758, Jewish: 41. The cemetery that was used by the Jewish community of Baia Sprie (Felsobanya) is located a considerable distance from the center of town. It is in a fenced and isolated hillside orchard attached to the caretaker's house. There are fruit trees within the fence though none of them are in the location of the stones themselves. It is relatively large with about 70 gravestones, the majority of which are large and made of durable stone. Many of the stones have Hungarian inscriptions on the reverse side. The site is well cared for, although many of the stones are leaning. The caretakers would like to repair some of stones that are damaged or in danger of splitting from the effects of weather and time. However, they are desperately in need of funds in order to carry the work out. Istvan Vincze and his wife are the current caretakers, they speak both Hungarian and Romanian. They purchased the house and adjoining gardens about fifteen years ago and know little about the history of the site.

Access to the 683-sq m cemetery is open with permission via a fence with a locking gate. 74 marble, granite, limestone, and sandstone gravestones in cemetery: 5 fallen over, 1 crumbled but half standing, 14 leaning over. The stones are flat-shaped, smoothed and inscribed or with carved relief decoration or double tombstones with traces of paint on their surfaces. Some have cement grave boundaries or cement footings for stones. Most of the Hebrew and Hungarian inscriptions on the stones are legible. One is half shorn off; and three have faces worn away. Vegetation and water drainage are not a problem. Although surrounded by an orchard, no trees are on the site. The site owner is a private individual. Adjacent property is a village residential setting with nearby homes, gardens, orchards, and pastures. The cemetery is the same size as in 1939. Local residents visit the cemetery. Theft of stones is the primary problem encountered between 1945 and the present. Care includes fixing of wall and gate and clearing vegetation by Jewish groups within the country and local non-Jewish residents. Seasonal clearing by regular unpaid caretaker. Weather erosion is the only threat.

John DeMetrick and Christina Crowder, (formerly of Cluj, they have no further information) completed this survey on 22 April 2000 using a list of cemeteries known by the Jewish Community in Baia Mare. They visited the site on 12 April 2000 and interviewed Vincze Stefan, Strada Ignis #74, 4847 Baia Sprie, Judetul Maramures, Tel: none.

   http://www.maramures.ro/main.htm is Maramures Online. [December 2000]

BĂIŢA de sub CODRU: US COMMISSION NO. RO/MM/62
Alternate/former Hungarian name: Mosóbănya. Located in Jud. Maramures away from the main roads of the village, although the caretaker's house can be found at number 221 on the main street.     We were lead to the cemetery in Baita de sub Codru by the caretaker Mrs. Florica Olaru. Her husband was unavailable on the day of our visit as he was attending a festival in a neighboring village. Mrs. Olaru and her husband have been looking after the cemetery for over twenty years, ever since the death of her father-in-law, who was the former caretaker.
    A concrete post and wire mesh fence that was built sometime within the past ten years protects the cemetery. The burials marked with gravestones are confined to a roughly 200 square meter section at the far end from the entrance. A large landslide that occurred following a storm this past winter has seriously damaged a significant portion of this area. The landslide caused four stones to topple and has disturbed the fence and posts on both ends of the cemetery. Regrettably, little can be done at the present time to prevent further erosion of the land. The disturbed area runs from north to south and encompasses approximately 45 square meters.
    Inscriptions on gravestones: 1) Ferencz Magdus, 1931 Jan. 28, 13 years. 2) Gluck Ignacz 3) Ferencz Lilike, Mech 1928 Aug. 23. 4) Ferencz Elemer, 33 years, died in Auschwitz 1944 II/10. 5) One stone with a number of inscriptions: Ferencz Moisa + wife, Ferencz Sighismond + wife, Deutsch Eugen + wife, and daughter Deutsch Ela, Ferencz Martin Suzana. 6) one broken stone, only partly legible: ? Iosif + wife, Matilda Gluck, Ferencz Alexandru + wife, Ferencz Andrei + wife, elemer, Marton, Sari?. #s 5 and 6 were had been broken, but were stacked neatly to one side of the cemetery fence. Memorial stones were erected after WWII. The isolated rural (agricultural) location on hillside has no sign or marker.
    A public road and private property reach the cemetery. Access to the cemetery is open to all. A fence and a gate that does not lock surround the 994 square meters (Baia Mare list) site. 19 gravestones are in the cemetery, regardless of condition or position: 5 standing straight up, 5 toppled, 5 leaning, 1 broken, and 3 moved with one stump visible where a stone once stood. Vegetation overgrowth and water drainage are not problems. The marble, granite, limestone, and sandstone tombstones and memorial markers are flat shaped, smoothed and inscribed, and multi-stone monuments with traces of painting on their surfaces, recent cement footing for stones, and cement grave boundary and Hebrew inscriptions. No known mass graves. The cemetery property is now used for an orchard. Adjacent properties are agricultural.
    Compared to 1939, the cemetery boundaries enclose the same area (probable.)
    The cemetery is visited occasionally by private visitors (Jewish.) Care has been re-erection of stones, cleaning of stones, and clearing of vegetation by local non-Jewish residents and Jewish individuals within country. Seasonal clearing of vegetation (twice a year minimum) by caretaker, all other work done by a Jewish woman, who lives in Baia Mare. Between three and four years ago, she arranged for concrete grave boundaries for four stones. Care is by a regular unpaid caretaker. No structures. Security (uncontrolled access) and weather erosion of stones and erosion of the hillside location are threats.
    John DeMetrick and Christina Crowder (who have no further information) completed this survey on 30 June 2000 using a list of cemeteries known by Jewish Community in Baia Mare. Other documentation exists. Further inquiries about the site could be addressed to the Jewish community in Baia Mare or the Federation of Romanian Jewish Communities in Bucuresti. They visited the site on 24 June 2000 and interviewed Mrs. Florica Olaru.

BAJA MARE: see Baia Mare
BALAZSFALVA: see BLAJ
BALVANYOSVARALJA: see UNGURASI

BAND: Mures County, Transylvania
The cemetery is located in Band, Roiului Str., no. 62, cod. 4344, judet Mures, 4635 2423, 170.1 miles NNW of Bucharest and 16 km from Targu Mures. Alternate name: Mezo Band (Hungarian) Present town population is 1,000-5,000 with no Jews.

The 1850 Jewish population by census was 12 and from 1930 census was 80. In May 1944, the Jews were gathered in the ghetto of Tîrgu Mures and on May 27,30 and June 8 were deported to Auschwitz.

The unlandmarked Orthodox cemetery was established in 19th century. Last known burial was 20th century. The isolated rural/agricultural flat land has no sign or marker. Reached via private property, access is open with permission. A fence with a gate that locks surrounds the site. Approximate pre- and post-WWII size is 80 m x 75 m. 20-100 stones are visible. 1-20 stones are not in original location. Less than 25% of the stones are toppled or broken. Location of stones removed from the cemetery is unknown. Vegetation overgrowth in the cemetery is not a problem. Water drainage is good all year. No special sections.

The oldest known gravestone dates from 19th century. The 19th and 20th century granite and sandstone flat shaped and smoothed and inscribed, and carved relief decorated gravestones have Hebrew inscriptions. No known mass graves. The national Jewish community owns the property used for Jewish cemetery only. Adjacent properties are a village setting with houses, gardens, orchards, and pastures. Rarely, private Jewish or non-Jewish visitors stop. The never vandalized cemetery maintenance has been re-erection of stones and clearing vegetation. Current care is occasional clearing or cleaning by unpaid individuals. No structures.

Raiciu Ioana, B-dul 21 Decembrie no. 13-15, ap. 6, Cluj Napoca, tel: 190 849 and Popa Cosmina, Tatra Str., no. 4, ap. 11, Cluj Napoca, tel: 128 764 visited the site and completed the survey on August 14, 2000 using the following documentation:

Raiciu Ioana & Popa Cosmina interviewed David Ioan, Band. [January 2003]


BANFFYHUNYAD: see Huedin, Cluj County at 46°52' 23°03"; see also town of Cluj  

BANLOC: Timis County

The cemetery is at Banloc, 1933. 4523 2108, 251.5 miles WNW of Bucharest and 48 km from Timisoara. Alternate Hungarian name is Banlak. Present town population is 1,000-5,000 with no Jews.

The Jewish population by census was ten in 1880, nineteen in 1910, and two in 1930. The unlandmarked Orthodox and Neolog The cemetery was established at end of the 19th century. Last known burial was inter-war period. The rural/agricultural flat land, part of a municipal cemetery ((Catholic cemetery), has no sign or marker. Reached by a public road, access is open to all. A fence surrounds the site with a non-locking gate.

Approximate pre-WWII size is unknown. Approximate post-WWII size is 20 x 10 m. 1-20 stones are visible with 1-20 in original location and 1-20 stones not in original location. More than 75% of the stones are toppled or broken. Location of stones removed from the cemetery is unknown. Vegetation overgrowth in the cemetery is a constant problem preventing access. Water drainage is good all year.

The oldest known gravestone dates from the end of the 19th century. The 19th and 20th century marble, sandstone, concrete, and brick flat shaped and smoothed and inscribed are only common gravestones. Inscriptions are in Hebrew and German. No known mass graves. The local Jewish community owns the property used for Jewish cemetery only. Adjacent properties are agricultural. Rarely, private Jewish or non-Jewish visitors stop. The cemetery was not vandalized in the last ten years or occasionally in the last ten years. [sic] No maintenance. No care now. No structures. Security is a moderate threat. The gravestones are almost covered by vegetation.

Claudia Ursutiu, Pietroasa Str. no. 21, 3400 Cluj Napoca, Romania, tel. 0040-64-151073 visited the site and completed the survey using the following documentation:

Claudia and Adrian Ursutiu visited but conducted no interviews. [January 2003]



BANLAK: see BANLOC
BĂRDFALVA: see BERBEŞTI

BARLAD: see Birlad
BARLAD (I): Vaslui County
The cemetery is located in Birlad, Str. Olga Bancic 5, judet Vaslui, 4614 2740, 145.7 miles NNE of Bucharest and 145 km from Iasi. Alternate name: Birlad (Romanian). Current town population is over 100,000 with 10-100 Jews.

The Jewish population by 1772 census was 6 Jewish families, from 1899 was 1306 Jews, and in 1930 was 3,686. In 1941, the Jews were deported to Transnistria. The cemetery was established at the end of the 18th century. Last known burial was 19th century. The unlandmarked Orthodox cemetery is1.5 km from the congregation that used it.

The isolated urban flat land has no sign or marker. Reached via private property, access is entirely closed. A fence with a no gate surrounds the site. Approximate pre- and post-WWII size is 200 x 150 m. 20-100 stones are visible. 1-20 stones are not in original location. 25%-50% of the stones are toppled or broken. Location of stones removed from the cemetery is unknown. Vegetation overgrowth in the cemetery is a seasonal problem preventing access. Water drainage is good all year.

The oldest known gravestone dates from 19th century. The 19th century marble, granite, limestone, sandstone, and slate tombstones have Hebrew inscriptions. Some have traces of painting on their surfaces, iron decorations or letting, bronze decorations or lettering, and other metallic elements. Some have portraits on stones.

The local Jewish community owns the property used for Jewish cemetery only. Adjacent properties are residential. Rarely, local residents stop. The cemetery was vandalized during WWII. No maintenance. No care now. No structures. Weather erosion is a moderate threat. Vandalism is a moderate threat.

Lucian Nastasă, Clinicilor Str., no. 19, Cluj, Romania, tel. 064/190107. Email: Nastasălucian@hotmail.com completed the survey on September 25, 2000 using the following documentation:

Lucian Nastasă interviewed Mr. Sternberg, Jewish Community of Barlad, Str. Sfintu Ilie no. 2, Barlad, judet Vaslui, phone: 412001 on September 23, 2000. [January 2003]

BARLAD (II)
The cemetery is located at Str. Tutovei, 2, Barlad, judet Vaslui.

The Orthodox The cemetery was established in 19th century. Last known burial was the end of the 19th century. Falciu (judet Vaslui) used the unlandmarked cemetery that is 1 km from the congregation that used it.

The isolated urban flat land has no sign or marker. Reached via private property, access is entirely closed. A fence with a no gate surrounds the site. Approximate pre- and post-WWII size is 180 x 70 m. 20-100 stones are visible. 1-20 stones are not in original location. 50%-75% of the stones are toppled or broken. Location of stones removed from the cemetery is unknown. Vegetation overgrowth in the cemetery is a seasonal problem preventing access. Water drainage is good all year.

No special sections. The oldest known gravestone dates from the 19th century. The 19th century limestone and sandstone gravestones have Hebrew inscriptions. Some have traces of painting on their surfaces, iron decorations or letting, bronze decorations or lettering, and other metallic elements. Some have portraits on stones.

The local Jewish community owns the property used for Jewish cemetery only. Adjacent properties are residential. Compared to 1939, the cemetery boundaries enclose a smaller area due to agriculture. Rarely, private Jewish or non-Jewish visitors stop. The cemetery was vandalized during WWII. No maintenance. Current care is regular unpaid caretaker. No structures. Weather erosion is a serious threat. Pollution is a moderate threat.

Lucian Nastasă, Clinicilor Str., no. 19, Cluj, Romania, tel. 064/190107. Email: Nastasălucian@hotmail.com completed the survey on September 25, 2000 using the following documentation:

Lucian Nastasă interviewed Mr. Sternberg, The Jewish Community of Barlad, Str. Sfintu Ilie no. 2, Barlad, judet Vaslui, phone: 412001 on September 23, 2000. [January 2003]
BARLAD (III):
The cemetery is located in Birlad, Str. Tecuciului 24, judet Vaslui.

The 1772 Jewish population by census was 6 Jewish families and from 1899 was 1306 and in 1930 was 3686. In 1941, the Jews were deported to Transnistria. The cemetery was established at the end of the 19th century with last known burial on July 29, 2000 (Kaufman Meer.) The unlandmarked Orthodox cemetery is 6 km from the congregation that used it.

The isolated suburban hillside has no sign or marker. Reached by a public road, access is open with permission. A masonry wall and fence with a gate that locks surround the site. Approximate pre- and post-WWII size is 400 x 150 m. 500-5000 stones are visible. 1-20 stones are not in original location. More than 75% of the stones are toppled or broken. Location of stones removed from the cemetery is unknown. Vegetation overgrowth in the cemetery is a seasonal problem preventing access. Water drainage is good all year.

No special sections. The oldest known gravestone dates from 1903. Tombstones date from the 20th century marble, granite, limestone, sandstone, and slate inscriptions are in Hebrew and Romanian. Some have traces of painting on their surfaces, iron decorations or letting, bronze decorations or lettering, and other metallic elements and portraits on stones and sculpted monuments. Some have iron decoration or lettering, carved relief-decorated, double tombstones, and sculpted monuments

The cemetery has Holocaust memorial and Jewish solider memorial. No known mass graves. The local Jewish community owns the property used for Jewish cemetery only. Adjacent properties are agricultural. Frequently, individual tours and private Jewish or non-Jewish visitors and local residents stop. The never vandalized cemetery maintenance has been cleaning stones and clearing vegetation and fixing wall and gate by local non-Jewish residents. Current care is regular unpaid caretaker living in a house in the cemetery. Within the limits of the cemetery is a preburial house with a tahara, catafalque, an ohel, and a house. Vegetation is a moderate threat.

Lucian Nastasă, Clinicilor Str., no. 19, Cluj, Romania, tel. 064/190107, Email: Nastasălucian@hotmail.com completed the survey on September 25, 2000 using the following documentation:

Lucian Nastasă interviewed Fedescu Alexandru, Str. Sfintu Ilie no. 21, Barlad, judet Vaslui on September 23, 2000. [January 2003]


BARLAFALU: see BORLESTI
BARLIBAS: see SINPETRU DE CIMPIE
BARTISHAW: see Botosani
BARU MARE: (Hunedoara judet)
The cemetery is located at Baru Mare, 2671 in Transylvania at 45°28' 23°10', 160.1 miles WNW of Bucharest and 24 km from Petrosani. The alternate Hungarian name is Nagybar. The current population is 500-1000 with no Jews. Jewish population by census was sixteen in 1880, eleven in1900, and none in 1930. The unlandmarked Orthodox and Neolog cemetery dates from the second half of the 19th century. Buried there is Cohen: Iona ben Smuel (d. 1878.) The last burial was during the interwar period
      The isolated rural wooded, flat land has no sign or marker. Reached by crossing private land, access to the cemetery is via private property. A masonry wall and gate that locks surrounds the cemetery. The pre-WWII cemetery is unknown, but the current size is 15 x 14 m. with no special sections. 20-100 gravestones are in cemetery with 1-20 in original location and 1-20 not in original location. No stones are toppled or broken. No stones were removed from the cemetery (probably.) Vegetation overgrowth is not a problem. Water drainage is a seasonal problem.
      The oldest stone dates from 1878. The marble, sandstone, concrete, and local stone memorial markers are flat-shaped, smoothed and inscribed with Hebrew, German, and Hungarian, some with carved relief decoration. No mass graves. The present owner of the inactive cemetery project is the local Jewish community. The site is used for Jewish cemetery and agricultural purposes (orchard.) Adjacent properties are residential. The size before WWII is unknown. Rarely, private Jewish or non-Jewish visitors stop. The never vandalized cemetery has had stones reerected, stones cleaned, vegetation cleared, and wall fixed by local non-Jewish residents in 1965. The local Jewish community pays the caretaker. No structures. No threats.
      Claudia Ursutiu, Pietroasa str. no. 21, 3400 Cluj Napoca, Romania, tel. 0040-64-151073 visited the site and completed the survey on 22 September 2000 using the following documentation:

She interviewed Ciubeica Floare on 22 September 2000 in Baru Mare.

BĂSEŞTI: US COMMISSION NO. RO/MM/53  
Located in Maramureş judet at 47°29' 23°09', 253.7 miles NNW of Bucharest.
    The cemetery in Basesti is well cared for by an exceptional caretaker named Marcel Maries. Marcel told us that he was always fascinated with the Jewish cemetery and has spent many hours staring at the stones, thinking about the writing, the pictures and the people who were buried here. He became caretaker several years ago when members of the Jewish community in Cluj came to clear the site and construct the concrete post and chain link fence. When the job was done, he offered to look after the cemetery, as no one else in town appeared to be interested. He knew that someone had to take responsibility so that all the initial effort of fixing it up wouldn't go to waste.
    Marcel is a young man with a growing family to support; and it is difficult for him to find the time to do all the work that he would like to do to make this cemetery look as beautiful as it should. He told us that every day he spends maintaining the cemetery means lost income for his growing family. Nevertheless, he has faithfully cleared the cemetery several times a year to make sure that the brush and undergrowth does not disturb the stones. In addition, he has righted a number of the smaller stones that have toppled and leaned over the years.
    Still, there is work to be done. Mr. Maries would like to repair some of the larger stones that are leaning heavily or have toppled, but this is not a job for one man alone. Another stone broke in half during the winter a year and a half ago. He requested some funds from Baia Mare to purchase some concrete to repair the stone, but as the community itself is strapped for funds. They never responded to his letters. Most recently, unknown thieves stole a 20-meter section of the chain link fence. Mr. Maries reported the incident to the police and has been very persistent in reminding them to continue their investigation. He is sure that they will not find it, but feels that it is best to make enough noise that people will learn that someone is looking after this site. Without any funds from the Jewish community in Baia Mare or the Federation in Bucuresti, he fears that the thieves will return to steal more of the fence or, worse, vandalize or steal some of the stones.
    Basesti reminded us of the curious predicament that many Jewish cemeteries are facing today. Over the past decade, a good deal of effort has been made to construct fences and find caretakers for these cemeteries. However, since that time, there has been little follow up activity. The caretakers are not paid for their activities; and some of them eventually abandon the time-consuming activity all together. Others, like Mr. Maries, continue to follow through on their promises and struggle, for a lack of funds, to keep the stones from cracking, toppling and crumbling, the fences from being stolen, and the cemeteries from being vandalized. Mr. Maries dream is that ". . . Jewish people from abroad will come to this cemetery and realize that it is a true museum, that it deserves to be cared for properly, that without the necessary funds, which don't amount to all that many dollars, this place will simply disappear over the years. It's a real shame."
    John DeMetrick and Christina Crowder (who have no further information) completed this survey on 30 June 2000 using a list of cemeteries known by Jewish Community in Baia Mare. Other documentation exists. Further inquiries about the site could be addressed to the Jewish community in Baia Mare or the Federation of Romanian Jewish Communities in Bucuresti. They visited the site on 23 June 2000 and interviewed caretaker Mr. Marcel Mărieş.

BATARCI: Satu Mare County, Transylvania

The cemetery is located at Batarci, 3933, judet Satu Mare, 4802 2310, 285.3 miles NNW of Bucharest and 44 km from Satu Mare. Alternate names: Batarcs (Hungarian); Batartsch (German) Present town population is 1,000-5,000 with no Jews.

The 1880 Jewish population by census was 112, by 1900 census was 214, and in 1930 was 201. In May 1944, the Jews were gathered in the ghetto of Satu Mare and on May 19, 22, 26, 29, 30, 31, and June 1 were deported to Auschwitz. The unlandmarked Orthodox, Hasidic cemetery was established in second half of the 19th century. Noteworthy individuals buried in the cemetery: one Cohan. Last known burial was inter-war period.

The hill and flat land, separate but near other cemeteries, has no sign or marker. Reached via private property, access is unknown. A fence with a non-locking gate surrounds the site. Approximate pre-WWII size is unknown. Approximate post-WWII size is 37 x 34 m. 20-100 stones are visible, some not in original location. Less than 25% of the stones are toppled or broken. Location of stones removed from the cemetery is unknown. Vegetation overgrowth in the cemetery is not a problem. Water drainage is good all year.

No special sections. The oldest known gravestone dates from second half of the 19th century. The 19th and 20th century marble, granite, and limestone, concrete, and local stone flat shaped, smoothed and inscribed, and carved relief-decorated common gravestones have Hebrew inscriptions. The cemetery has Holocaust memorial dedicated to two local families of Hasidic rabbis: Itzak ben Itzak Feir and Iona ben Moshe Waim. No known mass graves.

The local Jewish community owns the property used for Jewish cemetery and orchard. Adjacent properties are in village residential setting with houses, gardens, orchards, and pastures. Rarely, private Jewish or non-Jewish visitors stop. The never vandalized cemetery maintenance has been re-erection of stones, patching broken stones, cleaning stones, and clearing vegetation by local non-Jewish residents in 1985. Current care is regular unpaid caretaker. No structures. Vegetation overgrowth in the cemetery is a seasonal problem preventing access.

Claudia Ursutiu, Pietroasa Str. no. 21, 3400 Cluj Napoca, Romania, tel. 0040-64-151073 visited the site and completed the survey July 2000 using the following documentation:

Claudia and Adrian Ursutiu interviewed Paul Ileana, Batarci [January 2003]


BATARCS: see BATARCI
BATARTSCH: see BATARCI

BATIN:
47°04' 24°04', 206.5 miles NNW of Bucharest and 24 km from Dej. Alternate names: Batony (Hungarian) and Battendorf (German.) Town population is under 500 with no Jews. The Jewish population by census was two in 1857 and 37 in 1930. In May 1944, the Jews were gathered in the ghetto in Dej and on May 28th, and June 6th, 8th, 1944 deported to Auschwitz. The unlandmarked Orthodox cemetery has 19th and 20th century tombstones. The isolated rural/agricultural hillside has no sign or marker. Reached by crossing private property, access is open with permission. A masonry wall and non-locking gate surrounds the site. The pre- and post-WWII size is 10 m x 34 m. Fourteen gravestones are in cemetery with fourteen in original location. No stones are toppled or broken. No stones were removed from the cemetery (probably.)
      Vegetation and water drainage are not problems. No special sections. The 19th and 20th century marble, sandstone, and "other" tombstones are boulders, flat shaped, and smoothed and inscribed. Inscriptions are in Hebrew. Priviate individuals own the site used for an orchard. Adjacent properties are agricultural. Rarely, private Jewish or non-Jewish individuals visit. The never-vandalized cemetery has a regular unpaid caretaker. No structures. No threats.
      Alexandru Pecican, assistant professor, Almasului str., Bl. R1, ap. 14, 3400 Cluj-Napoca, Romania visited the site and completed the survey on 12 May 2000 using the following documentation:
He interviewed Dolha Vasile in Batin.

BATONY: see BATIN
BATU MARE: see Satu Mare
BATTENDORF: see BATIN
BAUT: see LAPUS

Be


BECHINI: Satu Mare County, Transylvania
The cemetery is located in Becheni, 3841, com. Sauca, judet Satu Mare, 4727 2227, 272.1 miles NW of Bucharest and 16 km from Tasnad. Alternate name: Pele (Hungarian). Present town population is under 1,000 with no Jews.

The 1880 Jewish population by census was 22, by 1900 census was 19 In May 1944, the Jews were gathered in the ghetto of Satu Mare and on May 19, 22, 26, 29, 30, 31, and June 1 were deported to Auschwitz. The unlandmarked Orthodox cemetery was established at end of the 19th century. The last known burial was inter-war period.

The rural/agricultural hillside, part of a municipal cemetery, has no sign or marker. Reached by a public road, access is open to all. No wall, fence, or gate. Approximate pre-WWII size is unknown. Approximate post-WWII size is approximately 10 x 8 m. 1-20 stones are visible, some not in original location. More than 75% of the stones are toppled or broken. Location of stones removed from the cemetery is unknown. Vegetation overgrowth in the cemetery is not a problem. Water drainage is good all year.

The oldest known gravestone dates from end of the 19th century. The 19th and 20th century marble, sandstone, and concrete flat shaped common gravestones have Hebrew inscriptions. No known mass graves. The local Jewish community owns the property used for Jewish cemetery only. Adjacent properties are residential. Rarely, private Jewish or non-Jewish visitors stop. The never vandalized cemetery maintenance has been clearing vegetation. Current care is regular unpaid caretaker. No structures. Security and weather erosion are moderate threats.

. Claudia Ursutiu, Pietroasa Str. no. 21, 3400 Cluj Napoca, Romania, tel. 0040-64-151073 visited the site and completed the survey 26 July 2000 using the following documentation:

Claudia and Adrian Ursutiu interviewed Kiss Samuil, Becheni. [January 2003]


BECLEAN I: Bistrita County
The cemetery is located in Beclean, 1 Decembrie 1918 Str., cod 4575, judet Bistrita, Romania at 4711 2411, 211.1 miles NNW of Bucharest and 49 km from Bistrita. Alternate name: Bethlen (Hungarian). Present town population is 5,000-25,000 with no Jews.

The 1850 Jewish population by census was 163, in 1857 was 177, and in 1930 was 671. In 1805, a synagogue in Beclean was registered. In May 1944, the Jews were gathered in the ghetto of Dej and on May 28, June 6-8, 1944 were deported to Auschwitz. The unlandmarked Orthodox cemetery was established in 18th century. Last known burial was 1950.

The isolated urban flat land has no sign or marker. Reached by a public road, access is open to all. No wall, fence, or gate. Approximate pre- and post-WWII size is 20 m x 20 m. 20-100 stones are visible. 1-20 stones are not in original location. 50%-75% of the stones are toppled or broken. Location of stones removed from the cemetery is unknown. Vegetation overgrowth in the cemetery is a constant problem disturbing stones. Water drainage is good all year. No special sections. Tombstones date from the 18th century. The granite, sandstone
marble, and limestone common gravestones have Hebrew inscriptions. No known mass graves.

The national Jewish community owns the property used for recreation. Adjacent properties are recreational and commercial/industrial use. Compared to 1939, the cemetery boundaries enclose a smaller area due to a housing development. Rarely does anyone visit.

The cemetery was vandalized occasionally in the last ten years. Maintenance has been re-erection of stones and clearing vegetation. Current care is occasional clearing or cleaning by unpaid individuals. No structures. Security is a very severe threat because the cemetery has no fence. Vegetation is a moderate threat because there was a lot of grass growing on the graves. Incompatible nearby development is a moderate threat. The cemetery sits amid many houses that could threaten it.

Cosmina Popa, Tatra Str. no. 4, tel. 064/ 128764, Cluj Napoca, 3400 and Ioana Raiciu, Bd. 21 Decembrie, 13-15, 064/190849, Cluj-Napoca, 3400 visited the site and completed the survey on July 21, 2000 using the following documentation:

They interviewed Goron Ioan, Coldau. [January 2003]
BECLEAN II
The cemetery is located in Beclean, Codrului Str. no. 33., cod 4575, judet Bistrita, Romania. See BECLEAN I for town information.

The cemetery was established in 19th century. Noteworthy individuals buried in the Orthodox cemetery: three tsadakim in the chapel that is landmarked. Last known burial was 1973, Dr. Fried. The isolated suburban hillside has no sign or marker. Reached by a public road, access is open with permission. A fence with a gate that locks surrounds the site. Approximate pre- and post-WWII size is 100 m x 80 m. 100-500 stones are visible. 1-20 stones are in original location. 100-500 stones are not in original location. 25%-50% of the stones are toppled or broken. Location of stones removed from the cemetery is unknown. Vegetation overgrowth in the cemetery is not a problem. Water drainage is good all year.

No special sections. Tombstones date from the 19th century. The marble, granite, sandstone, and limestone gravestones, some with traces of painting on their surfaces, have Hebrew and Romanian inscriptions. No known mass graves. The national Jewish community owns the property used for an orchard. Adjacent property is another cemetery.

Rarely, private Jewish or non-Jewish visitors stop. The never vandalized cemetery maintenance has been re-erection of stones, patching broken stones, clearing vegetation, and wall repair. Current care is occasional clearing or cleaning by individuals. The caretaker pays a fee to the Jewish Community from Bistrita for using the land for agriculture. Within the limits of the cemetery is the chapel.

Cosmina Popa, Tatra Str. no. 4, tel. 064/ 128764, Cluj Napoca, 3400 and Ioana Raiciu, Bd. 21 Decembrie, 13-15, 064/190849, Cluj-Napoca, 3400 visited the site and completed the survey on July 25, 2000 using the following documentation:

They interviewed Toma Ioan, Beclean. [January 2003]


BEIUS I: Bihor County, Transylvania

The Neolog cemetery is located at Beius, Str. Romana, no. 36, 3600, judet Bihor, Romania at 4640 2221, 238.0 miles NW of Bucharest. Alternate name: Belenyes (Hungarian). Present town population is 5,000-25,000 with no Jews

The 1880 Jewish population by census was 279, by 1900 census was 530, and in 1930 was 483. In May 1944, the Jews were gathered in the Oradea ghetto and on May 23, 25, 28-30, and June 1-5, 27 were deported to Auschwitz. The unlandmarked Neolog The cemetery was established at end of the 19th century. Buried there is Cohan: Smuel Salosinski. Last known burial was 1994.

The isolated urban hill has no sign or marker. Reached by a public road, access is open with permission. No wall, fence, or gate or with a gate that locks. Approximate pre-WWII size is unknown. Approximate post-WWII size is 20000 m2. 100-500 stones are visible. 100-500 are in original location. 20-100 stones are not in original location. Less than 25% of the stones are toppled or broken. Location of stones removed from the cemetery is unknown. Vegetation overgrowth in the cemetery is a seasonal problem preventing access. Water drainage is good all year.

The cemetery has special sections. Cohanim. The oldest known gravestone dates from 1893. The 19th and 20th century marble, granite, limestone, and sandstone, iron, concrete and local stone flat shaped, smoothed and inscribed, and carved relief-decorated, double tombstones, and sculpted monuments have Hebrew, Hungarian and Romanian inscriptions. Some tombstones have metallic elements and metal fences around graves. No known mass graves.

The local Jewish community owns the property used for Jewish cemetery only. Adjacent properties are agricultural. Rarely, private Jewish or non-Jewish visitors stop at the never vandalized cemetery maintenance has been cleaning stones and clearing vegetation by Jewish individuals abroad in approximately 1998. Current care is regular unpaid caretaker. No structures.

Ursutiu Claudia, Pietroasa Str. no. 21, 3400 Cluj-Napoca, tel: 0040-64-151073 visited the site and completed the survey on 8 July 2000 using the following documentation:

Claudia and Adrian Ursutiu interviewed Popa Livia, 08. 07. 2000, Beius. [January 2003]
BEIUS II

See BEUIS I for town information.

The Orthodox cemetery is in Beius, at Str. Plopilor, 3600, judet Bihor, Romania.

The 1880 Jewish population by census was 279, by 1900 census was 530 and in 1930 was 483. In May 1944, the Jews were gathered in the Oradea ghetto and on May 23, 25, 28-30, and June 1-5, 27 were deported to Auschwitz. The unlandmarked Orthodox cemetery was established in middle of the 19th century. Last known burial was 1903.

The urban flat land, separate but near other cemeteries, has no sign or marker. Reached by a public road, access is open to all. No wall, fence, or gate. Approximate pre-WWII size is unknown. Approximate post-WWII size is 28 x 32 m. 20-100 stones are visible. 20-100 stones are in original location. 1-20 stones are not in original location. Less than 25% of the stones are toppled or broken. Location of stones removed from the cemetery is unknown. Vegetation overgrowth in the cemetery is a constant problem damaging stones. Water drainage is good all year.

No special sections. The oldest known gravestone dates from 1852. The 19th and 20th century marble, granite, limestone, sandstone, and local stone flat shaped, smoothed and inscribed, and carved relief-decorated memorial markers have Hebrew, German, and Hungarian inscriptions. Some have metal fences around graves. No known mass graves.

The local Jewish community owns the property used for Jewish cemetery only. Adjacent properties are in village residential setting with houses, gardens, orchards, and pastures. Rarely,
private Jewish or non-Jewish visitors stop. The cemetery was not vandalized in the last ten years or occasionally in the last ten years. [sic] No maintenance. No care now. No structures. Security is a serious threat: (no fence, no gate) Vegetation is a serious threat. (The cemetery is almost covered by vegetation.) Incompatible nearby development is a moderate threat.

Ursutiu Claudia, Pietroasa Str. no. 21, 3400 Cluj-Napoca, tel: 0040-64-151073 visited the site and completed the survey on 8 July 2000 using the following documentation:

Claudia and Adrian Ursutiu conducted no interviews. [January 2003]


BELENYES: see BEIUS
BELENYESUJLAK: see UILEACU BE BEIUS
BEL: see Beliu
BELL: see BUIA

BELIU: Arad County, Transylvania
The cemetery is located in Beliu, southern side of the village, on the field, 2856, judet Arad, 4629 2159, 244.5 miles NW of Bucharest and 60 km from Arad. Alternate name: Bel (Hungarian). Present town population is 1,000-5,000 with no Jews.

The Jewish population by 1880 census was 69 and by 1910 census was 96. The unlandmarked Orthodox cemetery was established in 19th century. The isolated rural/agricultural flat land has no sign or marker. Reached by a public road, access is open to all. A fence with a non-locking gate surrounds the site. Approximate pre- and post-WWII size is 16 m x 68 m x 32 m. 20-100 stones are visible, all in original location. 25%-50% of the stones are toppled or broken. Location of stones removed from the cemetery is unknown. Vegetation overgrowth in the cemetery is not a problem. Water drainage is a constant problem. No special sections. The abandoned cemetery's fencing was stolen. It is under some reconstruction.

The oldest known gravestone dates from 19th century. The 19th and 20th century marble and "other" material flat shaped and smoothed and inscribed common gravestones have Hebrew and Hungarian inscriptions. No known mass graves. The national Jewish community owns the property used for orchard. Adjacent properties are agricultural. Rarely, private Jewish or non-Jewish visitors stop. The cemetery was not vandalized in the last ten years. Maintenance has been clearing vegetation and fixing wall. Current care is regular unpaid caretaker. No structures. Vandalism is a moderate threat.

Assistant Professor Alexandru Pecican, Almasului Str., Bl. R1, apt. 14, 3400 Cluj-Napoca
completed the survey on August 29, 2000 using the following documentation:

On August 28, 2000, he visited the site and interviewed Carabut Ioan [January 2003]


BELTEK: see BELTIUG

BELTIUG: Satu Mare County, Transylvania

The cemetery is located in Beltiug, 3966, judet Satu Mare, 4733 2251, 265.7 miles NW of Bucharest and 32 km from Satu Mare. Alternate name: Beltek (Hungarian). Present town population is 1,000-5,000 with no Jews.

The 1880 Jewish population by census was 78, by 1900 census was 67, and in 1930 was 20. In May 1944, the Jews were gathered in the ghetto of Satu Mare and on May 19, 22, 26, 29, 30, 31, and June 1 were deported to Auschwitz. The unlandmarked Orthodox cemetery was established in second half of the 19th century. Last known burial was 1974.

The rural/agricultural hillside, separate but near other cemeteries, has no sign or marker. Reached by a public road, access is open to all. A fence with a non-locking gate surrounds the site. Approximate pre-WWII size is unknown. Approximate post-WWII size is 29 x 20 m. 1-20 stones are visible, some not in original location. Less than 25% of the stones are toppled or broken. Location of stones removed from the cemetery is unknown. Vegetation overgrowth in the cemetery is not a problem. Water drainage is good all year. No special sections.

The oldest known gravestone dates from second half of the 19th century. The 19th and 20th century marble, granite, limestone, and concrete flat shaped, smoothed and inscribed, and carved relief-decorated common gravestones have Hebrew and Hungarian inscriptions. No known mass graves. The local Jewish community owns the property used for Jewish cemetery and orchard. Adjacent properties are residential. Rarely, private Jewish or non-Jewish visitors stop. The cemetery was not vandalized in the last ten years or occasionally in the last ten years. [sic] Maintenance has been cleaning stones and clearing vegetation. Current care is regular unpaid caretaker. No structures.

. Claudia Ursutiu, Pietroasa Str. no. 21, 3400 Cluj Napoca, Romania, tel. 0040-64-151073 visited the site and completed the survey 27 July 2000 using the following documentation:

They interviewed Ardelean Magdalena, Beltiug. [January 2003]


BENESAT: also see ALUNIS

BENESAT: Salaj County
The cemetery is located in Benesat, near the railway station, code 4764, judet Salaj, 4725 2318, 246.0 miles NNW of Bucharest and 9 km from Cehu Silvaniei. Alternate name: Benedekfalva (Hungarian). Present town population is 1,000-5,000 with no Jews.

The 1850 Jewish population by census was 12, in 1857 was 4, in 1880 was 30, in 1900 was 19, in 1910 was 16 and in 1930 was 7. In May 1944, the Jews were gathered in the ghetto of Cehei, then in Simleul Silvaniei and were deported to Auschwitz on May 31, June 6 and 8. The unlandmarked Orthodox cemetery was established in 19th century. Last known burial was 20th century.

The isolated rural/agricultural hillside has no sign or marker. Reached via private road, access is open with permission. A fence with a gate that locks surrounds the site. Approximate pre- and post-WWII size is 100 m. 1-20 stones are visible, some not in original location. Less than 25% of the stones are toppled or broken. Location of stones removed from the cemetery is unknown. Vegetation overgrowth in the cemetery is a seasonal problem preventing access. Water drainage is good all year. No special sections. The oldest known gravestone dates from 19th century. The 19th and 20th century limestone flat shaped common gravestones have Hebrew inscriptions. No known mass graves.

The national Jewish community owns the property used for Jewish cemetery only. Adjacent property is the railway station. Rarely, private Jewish or non-Jewish visitors stop. The never vandalized cemetery maintenance has been clearing vegetation. Current care is occasional clearing or cleaning by unpaid individuals. No structures. Vegetation is a moderate threat. A lot of vegetation is disturbing the graves.

Cosmina Popa, Tatra Str. no. 4, tel. 064/ 128764, Cluj Napoca, 3400 and Ioana Oprea, Bd. 21 Decembrie, 13-15, 064/190849, Cluj-Napoca, 3400 visited the site and completed the survey on September 29, 2000 using the following documentation:

Popa Cosmina & Oprea Ioana interviewed Grad Cornel, Inspector for Culture, Zalau. [January 2003]


BERBEŞTI: US COMMISSION NO. RO/MM/47  
Alternate/former Hungarian name: Bárdfalva. Located in Jud. Maramures at 47°51' 23°56' 257.7 miles NNW of Bucharest. The cemetery is located on the side of the village nearest to Maramures Sighet, and the road leading to the caretaker's house turns off the main road to the west (on the right side coming from Sighet) before the center of the village. The caretaker's house is approximately 250m up this road on the right at nr. 53.

A concrete post, a locking gate, and wire mesh fence protects the cemetery in Berbesti. By far the largest in the entire Mara Valley and certainly larger than a single unpaid family of caretakers should be expected to maintain, Gheorghe and Iliana Tiplea nevertheless have managed alone to take good care of the site since WWII, later with the aid of their hardworking son. The most that they can do is tend the growth of grass and saplings. Most of the stones are in good condition but a fair number are leaning and toppled. Perhaps ten stones have been moved off to the perimeters of the cemetery where they lie in piles. The Tipleas are sorry to see that more and more stones have begun to lean and topple over the years, but regret that they have been unable to find help in raising and repairing stones. No money ever has arrived from the Federation in Bucuresti or the community in Sighet. The caretakers told us that about six or seven years ago, people came from Israel to repair several of the markers that belonged to their grandparents. These markers have been very well restored; and the Tiplea family is very pleased (and proud) to see how beautiful these stones look today.

The isolated rural (agricultural) cemetery location is on hillside no sign or marker. Reached by turning off a public road and crossing private property, access to the cemetery is open with permission. A fence and a gate that locks surround the cemetery. Present size of cemetery is on-site estimate - 6000 sq. m. 161 gravestones are in original location: 33% standing straight up, 15% toppled, 50 leaning and several stumps visible where stones once stood. The caretaker's wife stated that no stones had ever been removed from the site, but another younger woman (+/-20) said that she remembers there being more stones when she was a child.

Vegetation overgrowth and water drainage are not a problem. Special sections may exist in older sections for men and women, possibly Cohanim. The marble, granite, limestone, and sandstone flat shaped, smoothed and inscribed, carved relief decoration, double tombstones, and multi-stone have traces of painting on their surfaces and recent cement footing for stones. Inscriptions on tombstones are in Hebrew. No known mass graves. The cemetery property is now used for orchard. Adjacent properties are agricultural. Compared to 1939, the cemetery boundaries enclose are the same area (probable). The cemetery is rarely by private visitors (Jewish or non-Jewish.) The caretakers said that one family from Israel (originally from the village had visited approximately six or seven years ago with their twelve grandchildren.

Theft of stones is the primary problem encountered between 1945 and the present.

Care includes re-erection of stones, patching of broken stones, cleaning of stones, and clearing of vegetation by local non-Jewish residents and Jewish individuals abroad. Care: Seasonal clearing of vegetation (twice a year minimum) The family from Israel has re-set, and completely restored three stones in the grave yard. The regular unpaid caretakers do all other care. No structures. Weather erosion is a slight threat. John DeMetrick and Christina Crowder (who have no further information) completed this survey on 30 June 2000. Further inquiries about the site could be addressed to the Jewish community in Sighet or the Federation of Romanian Jewish Communities in Bucuresti. They visited the site on 20 June 2000 and interviewed caretakers: Mr. and Mrs. Tiplea and their niece Maria Pop.

BERCHEZ: Reference Number RO/MM/03
Alternate/former Hungarian name of town in Hungarian: Magyarberkesz. Located in Maramures County at 47°31' 23°30', approximately 1.5 km from Somcuta Mare (Nagysomkut) and 17.8 kilometers SSW of Baia Mare. Upon leaving the town of Somcuta Mare, continue down the road approximately 1.5 km towards Berchez. About half way down the long hill leading to Berchez proper are two dirt roads leading into orchards on either side of the road. Walk up the road on the left about 150 meters, then make a sharp right hand turn and walk a further 100 meters between the rows of fruit trees.

Berchez 1850 total population: 15 76, Jewish 76. 1880; total population: 533, Jewish: 62. The caretaker for the cemetery in Berchez (Magyarberkesz) is Adolf Friedman. He is one of two Jewish individuals living in the neighboring town of Somcuta Mare. His parents, who used to live in Berchez, are buried in this cemetery. The cemetery is protected by a concrete post and chain link fence that was constructed in 1986 by the Jewish community in Baia Mare. On the day of our visit, however, the gate was unlocked because Mr. Friedman does not lock it. The 345-sq m cemetery itself is in good condition. Most of the stones are standing upright; and Mr. Friedman regularly clears vegetation. One of the problems with this cemetery is its isolated location, surrounded by dense orchards. When asked if he was a guard and a caretaker Mr. Friedman replied: "Yes, well, I am a caretaker but how can I be a guard if the cemetery is here and I am living so far away? Look over here!" Turning around, he pointed out a stone that had been freshly knocked over since his last visit a week before. He later pointed out another stone that had been damaged a year before.

Adolf Friedman claims that the rural, hillside cemetery is at least 200 years old. Twelve limestone or sandstone flat-shaped, smoothed and Hebrew-inscribed gravestones are in the cemetery. Stones probably have been removed and incorporated into roads or structures. Vegetation and water drainage are not a problem. Present owner is unknown. Adjacent properties are agricultural. The cemetery is the same size as before 1939. Care: Fence put up in 1986 by Jewish community, seasonal clearing of vegetation by Jewish caretaker. Threats: weather erosion and vandalism.

John DeMetrick and Christina Crowder, (formerly of Cluj, they have no further information) completed this survey on 22 April 2000 using a list of cemeteries known by the Jewish Community in Baia Mare. They visited the site on 8 April 2000 and interviewed Adolf Friedman, Strada Morii # 12, Somcuta Mare, Judetul Maramures 4866. No phone.

BERCU: Satu Mare County, Transylvania

The cemetery is located in Bercu, 3992, com. Lazuri, judet Satu Mare, 4 755 2253, 285.4 miles NNW of Bucharest and 14 km from Satu Mare. Alternate name: Szarazberek (Hungarian). Present town population is 1,000-5,000 with no Jews.

The 1880 Jewish population by census was 60, by 1900 census was 71, and in 1930 was 76. In May 1944, the Jews were gathered in the ghetto of Satu Mare and on May 19, 22, 26, 29, 30, 31, and June 1 were deported to Auschwitz. The unlandmarked Orthodox, Hasidic cemetery was established in second half of the 19th century. Last known burial was 1948.

The isolated rural/agricultural flat land has no sign or marker. Reached by a public road, access is open with permission. A fence with a gate that locks surrounds the site. Approximate pre-WWII size is unknown. Approximate post-WWII size is 34 x 22 m. 20-100 stones are visible. 1-20 stones are not in original location. Less than 25% of the stones are toppled or broken. Location of stones removed from the cemetery is unknown. Vegetation overgrowth in the cemetery is not a problem. Water drainage is good all year.

Cannot determine if cemetery has/had special sections. The oldest known gravestone dates from second half of the 19th century. The 19th and 20th century marble, granite, limestone, and concrete flat shaped and smoothed and inscribed common gravestones have Hebrew and Hungarian inscriptions. The cemetery has Holocaust memorial. No known mass graves. The local Jewish community owns the property used for Jewish cemetery only. Adjacent properties are agricultural. Rarely, private Jewish or non-Jewish visitors stop. The never vandalized cemetery maintenance has been cleaning stones and clearing vegetation. Current care is regular unpaid caretaker. No structures.

Claudia Ursutiu, Pietroasa Str. no. 21, 3400 Cluj Napoca, Romania, tel. 0040-64-151073 visited the site and completed the survey 23 July 2000 using the following documentation:

Claudia and Adrian Ursutiu interviewed Biro Gyula, Bercu [January 2003]
BERCU II:
The unlandmarked Orthodox, Hasidic cemetery was established in second half of the 19th century. Last known burial was 1948.

The isolated rural/agricultural flat land has no sign or marker. Reached by a public road, access is open with permission. A fence with a gate that locks surrounds the site. Approximate pre-WWII size is unknown. Approximate post-WWII size is 20 x 8 m. 1-20 stones are visible, some not in original location. Less than 25% of the stones are toppled or broken. Location of stones removed from the cemetery is unknown. Vegetation overgrowth in the cemetery is not a problem. Water drainage is good all year.

No special sections. The oldest known gravestone dates from second half of the 19th century. The 19th and 20th century marble and limestone flat shaped and smoothed and inscribed common gravestones have Hebrew inscriptions. No known mass graves.

The local Jewish community owns the property used for Jewish cemetery only. Adjacent properties are agricultural. Rarely, private Jewish or non-Jewish visitors stop. The never vandalized cemetery maintenance has been cleaning stones and clearing vegetation. Current care is regular unpaid caretaker. No structures. Weather erosion is a moderate threat.

Claudia Ursutiu, Pietroasa Str. no. 21, 3400 Cluj Napoca, Romania, tel. 0040-64-151073 visited the site and completed the survey 23 July 2000 using the following documentation:

Claudia and Adrian Ursutiu interviewed Biro Gyula, Bercu [January 2003]


BERESTI (I): (Judet Galati)
The cemetery is located at Str. Eternitatii no. 1, Beresti, judet Galati, 4606 2753, 144.1 miles NE of Bucharest and 134 km from Galati. Present town population is 5,000-25,000 with no Jews.

The Jewish population by census was 253 in 1899 and was 316 in 1930. The Jewish Community was founded in 1842. In 1941, the Jews were deported to Caracal (Romania.)

The cemetery was established in 19th century with last known burial in 20th century. The unlandmarked Orthodox cemetery is 3 km from the congregation that used it. The isolated suburban hillside has no sign or marker. Reached via private property, access is open with permission. A fence with a gate that locks surrounds the site. Approximate pre- and post-WWII size was 150 m x 60 m. 20-100 stones are visible. 20-100 stones are in original location. 1-20 stones are not in original location. More than 75% of the stones are toppled or broken. Location of stones removed from the cemetery is unknown. Vegetation overgrowth in the cemetery is not a problem. Water drainage is good all year. No special sections.

The oldest known gravestone dates from the end of 19th century. The 19th and 20th century marble, limestone, and sandstone memorial markers have Hebrew and Romanian inscriptions. Some have traces of painting on their surfaces, iron decorations or letting, bronze decorations or lettering, and other metallic elements. Some have portraits on stones.

The national Jewish community owns the property used for Jewish cemetery only. Adjacent properties are agricultural. Rarely, private Jewish or non-Jewish visitors stop. The never vandalized cemetery Maintenance has been clearing vegetation. Current care is unpaid regular caretaker. No structures. No threats.

Lucian Nastasă, Clinicilor Str., no. 19, Cluj, Romania, tel. 064/190107. Email: Nastasălucian@hotmail.com visited the site and completed the survey on 15 January 2001 using the following documentation:

Lucian Nastasă interviewed Tincovici Ion, Beresti, Str. Al.I.Cuza no. 17. [January 2003]
BERESTI (II) (Judet Galati)

See BERESTI I for town information.
The cemetery is located on Str. Varfului, Beresti, judet Galati.

The cemetery was established in 20th century with Last known burial was 20th century. The unlandmarked Orthodox cemetery is 4 km from the congregation that used it.

The isolated suburban flat land has no sign or marker. Reached via private property,
access is entirely closed. A fence with a no gate surrounds the site. Approximate pre- and post-WWII size is 15 m x 7 m. 1-20 stones are visible and in original location. More than 75% of the stones are toppled or broken. Location of stones removed from the cemetery is unknown. Vegetation overgrowth in the cemetery is not a problem. Water drainage is good all year.

No special sections. The oldest known gravestone dates from 20th century. The marble, limestone, and sandstone flat shaped, smoothed and inscribed, and carved relief-decorated gravestones have Hebrew and Romanian inscriptions. Some have portraits on stones. The national Jewish community owns the property used for Jewish cemetery only. Adjacent properties are agricultural. Rarely, private Jewish or non-Jewish visitors stop at the never vandalized cemetery maintenance has been clearing vegetation. Current care is regular unpaid caretaker. No structures. No threats.

Lucian Nastasă, Clinicilor Str., no. 19, Cluj, Romania, tel. 064/190107. email: Nastasălucian@hotmail.com visited the site and completed the survey on 15 January 2001 using the following documentation:

Lucian Nastasă interviewed Tincovici Ion, Beresti, Str. Al.I.Cuza no. 17. [January 2003]


BERINTA: Reference Number RO/MM/03
Alternate Hungarian name: KOVARBERENCE. Located in Maramures County at 47°33' 23°41', 15 km SSE of Baia Mare, approximately 21 km from Baia Mare. From Baia Mare, the cemetery is visible on the hillside on the left about 100 m from the crossroad/center of the village, directly above where a dirt road turns off to the left. The cemetery is reached by following this dirt road and parking next to the house at the first turn. Another dirt road leads up the hill about 150 m to the site. The rural, isolated hillside has no sign or marker.

Berinta 1850 total population: 886, no Jews. 1880 total population: 324, Jewish: 32. Mr. Ioan Ciocas currently uses the cemetery of Berinta (Kovarberence) as an orchard. He also cares for the cemetery and regularly clears vegetation from the site. Though the space enclosed by the fence is quite large, only 10 gravestones are present. It is probably that there were more stones at one time, which were removed before the fence was put up in 1990. The only real threat to the site is weather erosion of the stones, although most of them are still legible. Access is open with permission. The 535-sq. m. cemetery, surrounded by a fence and gate that locks, holds ten limestone or sandstone, flat-shaped and smoothed, Hebrew inscribed gravestones, 1 illegible, 2 leaning. Vegetation and water drainage are not a problem. The cemetery is probably the same size as in 1939. Rarely, local residents visit the site. Fence put up in 1990 by Jewish community. Care: seasonal clearing by local non-Jewish resident, unpaid caretaker.

John DeMetrick and Christina Crowder, (formerly of Cluj, they have no further information) , completed this survey on 22 April 2000 using a list of cemeteries known by the Jewish Community in Baia Mare. They visited the site on 12 April 2000 and interviewed Ioan Ciocas, Berinta nr. 132, Com. Copalnic Manastur, jud. Maramures, Tel: (40-64) 497-728.

BERLAD: see Birlad

BERVENI: Satu Mare County, Transylvania
The cemetery is located in Berveni, 3833, judet Satu Mare, 4745 2228, 287.5 miles NW of Bucharest and 8 km from Carei. Alternate name: Bovely (Hungarian) Present town population is 1,000-5,000 with no Jews.

The 1880 Jewish population by census was 46, by 1900 census was 17 Jewish inhabitants
In May 1944, the Jews were gathered in the ghetto of Carei, then from Satu Mare and on May 19, 22, 26, 29, 30, 31, and June 1 were deported to Auschwitz.

The unlandmarked Orthodox cemetery was established at end of the 19th century. Last known burial was 1944. The rural/agricultural flat land, separate but near other cemeteries, has no sign or marker. Reached by a public road, access is open to all. A fence with a non-locking gate surrounds the site. Approximate pre-WWII size is unknown. Approximate post-WWII size is 44 x 22 m. 1-20 stones are visible, some not in original location. Less than 25% of the stones are toppled or broken. Location of stones removed from the cemetery is unknown. Vegetation overgrowth in the cemetery is not a problem. Water drainage is good all year. No special sections.

The oldest known gravestone dates from end of the 19th century. The 19th and 20th century marble, granite, and concrete flat shaped and smoothed and inscribed common gravestones have Hebrew and Hungarian inscriptions. No known mass graves. The local Jewish community owns the property used for Jewish cemetery only. Adjacent properties are residential. Rarely, private Jewish or non-Jewish visitors stop. The never vandalized cemetery maintenance has been cleaning stones and clearing vegetation. Current care is regular unpaid caretaker. No structures.

. Claudia Ursutiu, Pietroasa Str. no. 21, 3400 Cluj Napoca, Romania, tel. 0040-64-151073 visited the site and completed the survey July 2000 using the following documentation:

No interviews. [January 2003]



BEUDIU: Bistrita County
The cemetery is located in Beudiu, near the village, cod 4589, judet Bistrita, Romania at 4704 2410, 204.3 miles NNW of Bucharest and 38 km from Dej. The alternate name is Bod (Hungarian). Present town population is 1,000-5,000 with no Jews.

The 1850 Jewish population by census was 35 and in 1930 was 69. In May 1944, the Jews were gathered in the ghetto of Dej and on May 28, June 6-8 were deported to Auschwitz. The unlandmarked Orthodox cemetery was established in 19th century. Last known burial was 20th century.

The isolated rural/agricultural hillside has no sign or marker. Reached via private road,
access is open with permission. A fence with a gate that locks surrounds the site. Approximate pre- and post-WWII size is 20 m x 10 m. 1-20 stones are visible, some not in original location. 25%-50% of the stones are toppled or broken. Location of stones removed from the cemetery is unknown. Vegetation overgrowth in the cemetery is a seasonal problem preventing access. Water drainage is good all year.

No special sections. Tombstones date from the 19th century. The limestone, marble, and granite common gravestones have Hebrew inscriptions. No known mass graves. The national Jewish community owns the property used for an orchard. Adjacent properties are agricultural. Rarely, private Jewish or non-Jewish visitors stop. The never vandalized cemetery maintenance has been re-erection of stones and clearing vegetation. Current care is occasional clearing or cleaning by unpaid individuals. No structures. Weather erosion due to weather is a moderate threat.

Cosmina Popa, Tatra Str. no. 4, tel. 064/ 128764, Cluj Napoca, 3400 and Ioana Raiciu, Bd. 21 Decembrie, 13-15, 064/190849, Cluj-Napoca, 3400 visited the site and completed the survey on July 25, 2000 using the following documentation:

They interviewed no one. [January 2003]


BESZTERCZE: see BISTRITA
BETHLEN: see BECLEAN

BEZID: Mures County, Transylvania
The cemetery is located in Bezid under the water [sic] near the village, cod. 3281, 4624 2455, 147.4 miles NNW of Bucharest and 42 km from Targu Mures. Alternate name: Bozod (Hungarian). Present town population is under 1,000 with no Jews.

The 1850 Jewish population by census was 21 and from 1930 census was 10. Beginning at the end of the 16th century, Bezid was one of the main centers of the so-called Sabatarians, Christians who observed Jewish festivals, rituals, and sanitation and food prescriptions. After persecutions suffered in the 17-18th centuries and after the1869 civil emancipation of Jews in Hungary and Transylvania, the Sabatarians converted to Judaism. In May 1944, they chose to be deported together with the Jews to Auschwitz and not return to Christianity. The 19th and 20th century isolated unlandmarked Orthodox cemetery gravestones are under water and by water with no sign or marker. Reached by a public road, 20-100 stones are visible. Location of stones removed from the cemetery is unknown. Water drainage is a constant problem. Tombstones date from the 19th century. No known mass graves. The national Jewish community owns the property that is now a lake. Adjacent properties are hills. No maintenance. No care. No structures. The cemetery generally is under water.

Cosmina Popa, Tatra Str. no. 4, tel. 064/ 128764, Cluj Napoca, 3400 and Ioana Oprea, Bd. 21 Decembrie, 13-15, 064/190849, Cluj-Napoca, 3400 visited the site and completed the survey on 11 August 2000 using the following documentation:

Cosmina Popa and Ioana Raiciu interviewed Veres Rozalia, Suplac. [January 2003]


Bi


BICAZ (Neamt judet): see BICAZU ARDELEAN
BICAZ (Bacău judet): see PIATRA NEAMT
BICAZ: US COMMISSION NO. RO/MM/58
Alternate/former Hungarian name: Bikăcfalva. Located in Maramureş judet. After the center of the village, the road takes a big curve down and to the left. At the bottom there is a small dirt road leading to the left. Follow the road up to the last house on the right (although it is likely that a car will only get you halfway up). The Muresan family lives in the last house on the right and will direct you to the home of the man, who owns the property and cares for the cemetery. The cemetery in Bicaz figured on a list of known cemeteries that we received from the Jewish community in Baia Mare. Although it was listed as not having a caretaker, we were informed that a man living adjacent to this rather isolated cemetery has been taking care of the premises for some time. Unfortunately, he was not home at the time of our visit and had no opportunity to interview him. This caretaker appears to have been clearing vegetation on a regular basis. None of the stones seem to be threatened. Despite the fact that the caretaker's home is within sight of the cemetery, it has no fence, which means that access is open to all. Fortunately, the cemetery is in a rather isolated area with very few homes in its vicinity. Although the cemetery is rather small, numbering only twelve markers, the stones are well preserved; two very lovely double tombstones and several of the stones have carved relief. The isolated rural cemetery location on hillside has no sign or marker. Reached by a public road, access is open to all with no wall, gate, or fence. Present size is 150 square meters (Baia Mare list), on-site estimate - 15m x 15m. Twelve gravestones are in situ: 2 standing straight up, 3 toppled, and 7 leaning. Vegetation overgrowth and water drainage are not problems. The granite, limestone, and sandstone flat shaped and double tombstones are smoothed and inscribed with carved relief decoration and traces of painting on their surfaces. Inscriptions are in Hebrew. No known mass grave. The cemetery property is now used for Jewish cemetery use only. Adjacent properties are agricultural and residential, a village residential setting very near houses with adjacent gardens, orchards, and pastures. Compared to 1939, the cemetery boundaries enclose the same area (probable.) The site never is visited. Theft of stones is the primary problem encountered between 1945 and the present. Care has been taken seasonal clearing of vegetation and cleaning by local non-Jewish residents. No structures. John DeMetrick and Christina Crowder (who have no further information) completed this survey on 30 June 2000 using a list of cemeteries known by Jewish Community in Baia Mare. Other documentation exists. Further inquiries about the site could be addressed to the Jewish community in Baia Mare or the Federation of Romanian Jewish Communities in Bucuresti. They visited the site on 23 June 2000 and interviewed Mrs. Muresan, neighbor at the top of the hill.

BICAZU ARDELEAN: (Neamt judet) US Commission No. _
The cemetery is located at in a place called "in podis", Bicazu Ardelean (5664), Neamt judet, Moldavia region at 46°45' 25°55', 20 km from Bicaz. Present town population is 5,000-25,000 with no Jews.

The 1930 Census registered 67 Jewish inhabitants. This Jewish cemetery was established in the 19th century. The last known Jewish burial in cemetery was in 1919. The unlandmarked Orthodox cemetery was 1 km from the congregation that used it and also was used by the Jews of Bicaz (Neamt judet)

The rural (agricultural) land at the crown of a hill and separate, but near other cemeteries has no sign or marker. Reached by turning directly off a public road, the site has a gate that locks.

The pre- and post-WWII size of the cemetery is 60 m X 35 m. 20 to 100 gravestones are visible in the cemetery. 1 to 20 are in original location. Less than 25% are toppled or broken. Vegetation overgrowth and water drainage are not problems.

No special sections. The oldest known gravestone in the cemetery dates from the 19th century. Tombstones date from the 19th century. The rough stones or boulders, flat shaped stones, finely smoothed and inscribed stones, and flat stones with carved relief decoration have Hebrew inscriptions.

The national Jewish community owns the cemetery property used for agricultural purposes. Adjacent properties are agricultural. Compared to 1939, the cemetery boundaries enclose the same area. Rarely, private visitors (Jewish or non-Jewish) stop. The never vandalized cemetery has no restoration but care is by the regular paid caretaker. No structures. Security is a slight threat.

Lucian Nastasa, Clinicilor str., no. 19, Cluj, Romania, tel. 064/190107. Email: nastasalucian@hotmail.com completed the survey on July 18, 2000 using the following documentation:

He visited July 15, 2000 and interviewed Florea Debona Emilia, Bicazu Ardelean, July 15, 2000 [June 2002] BIKĂCFALVA: see BICAZ

BILED: (jud. Timis)
45°53' 20°57, 269.9 miles WNW of Bucharest and 26 km from Timisoara. Alternate names: Billed (Hungarian), Billed (German). Town's current population is 500-1000 with no Jews. The Jewish population by census was seventeen in 1880; 21 in 1900 registered, three in 1930. The unlandmarked Orthodox and Neolog cemetery dates from the end of the 19th century with the last known burial in 1923. The rural/agricultural flat land, separate but near other cemeteries, has no sign or marker. Reached by a public road, access is open to all via a fence with non-locking gate.
      Cemetery's size before WWII is unknown. The current size is 4 x 3 m. 20-100 gravestones are in cemetery with 1-20 in original and 20-100 not in original location.
      No stones are toppled or broken. No stones were removed from the cemetery (probably.)
      Vegetation overgrowth and water drainage are good all year. No sections. Tombstones date from the end of the 19th century. The 20th century marble, carved relief decorated gravestones. Inscriptions are in Hebrew and German. No known mass graves. The local Jewish community owns the site used for Jewish cemetery purposes only. Adjacent properties are residential and Catholic cemetery. The pre-1939 size is unknown. Rarely, private Jewish or non-Jewish visitors stop. No vandalism in the last ten years. Clearing of vegetation is the care given
      Occasional clearing or cleaning by individuals. No structures. No threats.
      Claudia Ursutiu, Pietroasa str. no. 21, 3400 Cluj Napoca, Romania, tel. 0040-64-151073 visited the site and completed the survey on 23 September 2000 using the following documentation:
Claudia and Adrian Ursutiu interviewed Horvath Niculina in Biled

BIHAR: see BIHARIA
BIHARDIOSZEG: see DIOSIG
BIHARFELEGYHAZA: see ROSIORI

BIHARIA: Bihor County, Transylvania
The cemetery is located at Biharia, 3744, Tudor Vladimirescu Str., judet Bihor, Romania at 4709 2155, 13 km from Oradea at 4704 2156. Alternate name: Bihar (Hungarian.) Present town population is 1,000-5,000 with no Jews.

Two Jewish families are listed in 1828-1829 Jewish census. The 1880 Jewish population by census was 123, by 1900 census was 289, and in 1930 was 108. In May 1944, the Jews were gathered in the Oradea ghetto and on May 23, 25, 28-30, and June 1-5, 27 were deported to Auschwitz. Noteworthy Jewish residents of the community were Dr. Viktor Schwimmer and Dr. Emmerich Hartstein. The unlandmarked Orthodox cemetery was established in middle of 19th century. Last known burial was 1984

The suburban flat land, separate but near other cemeteries, has no sign or marker. Reached by a public road, access is open with permission. A fence with a gate that locks surrounds the site. Approximate pre-WWII size is unknown. Approximate post-WWII size is 56 x 38 m. 20-100 stones are visible. 20-100 stones are in original location. 1-20 stones are not in original location. Less than 25% of the stones are toppled or broken. Location of stones removed from the cemetery is unknown. Vegetation overgrowth in the cemetery is not a problem. Water drainage is good all year.

No special sections. The oldest known gravestone dates from middle of 19th century. The 19th and 20th century marble, limestone, sandstone, concrete and local stone flat shaped, smoothed and inscribed, and carved relief-decorated, and double tombstones have Hebrew and Hungarian inscriptions. Some have metal fences around graves. The cemetery has a Holocaust memorial. The local Jewish community owns the property used for Jewish cemetery and orchard. Adjacent properties are residential and local cemetery. Rarely, private Jewish or non-Jewish visitors stop at the never vandalized cemetery maintenance has been re-erection of stones, cleaning stones, and clearing vegetation by local non-Jewish residents. Current care is unpaid regular caretaker. No structures.

Ursutiu Claudia, Pietroasa Str. no. 21, 3400 Cluj-Napoca, tel: 0040-64-151073 visited the site and completed the survey on 1 July 2000 using the following documentation:

No interviews. [January 2003]



BIHARKPUSPOKI: see EPISCOPIA BIHORULUI
BIKSZAD: see BIXAD
BILLED: see BILED

BIRLAD: see BARLAD
BIRLAD: Moldavia  
Alternate name: Barlad, Berlad. Located at 46°14' 27°40' in Vaslui judet. Current Jewish population: 10-50. Birlad has three cemeteries:
     Person to contact about grave locations is Mr. Bernard Usher, Head of the Jewish Community, Republicii No. 304, bloc H3, apt. 27, Sc. B, Birlad, tel. 035-412001. The Jewish Community Office has a "Kedusha", listing burials in a record book from 1899 forward. The synagogue is Templul Mare, Str. Kirov 5, Birlad. Mr. Meyer Caufman is the official. Templul Poale Tedec (demolished) also used this cemetery. Dr. Jeffrey B. Rosenberg, 222 Oakridge, Daytona Beach, Florida 32118 also is interested in the site and may share information.
     A local farmer is the caretaker. The inactive Orthodox cemetery on an isolated rural (agricultural) hillside is reached by turning directly off a public road and crossing private property. Access is open with permission. The cemetery is divided into sections for men and women. The oldest gravestone dates from 1899. 500-1000 gravestones are in the cemetery in original location with less than 25% broken or toppled. Many of the flat shaped stones, finely smoothed and inscribed stones, sculpted monuments, multi-stone monuments, horizontally set stones, flat-low inground plaques, obelisks, or mausoleums have portraits on the stones and/or metal fences around graves. The cemetery contains special memorial monuments to Holocaust victims. The local Jewish community owns the property. Properties adjacent to the cemetery are agricultural. Past maintenance includes re-erection of stones. Jeffrey Rosenberg was responsible for this work completed in 1995. Vegetation overgrowth is a problem.
     Rita Krakower Margolis (11112 Arroyo Drive, Rockville, Maryland 20852-3602, tel. 301/530-3511, rmargoli@erols.com) completed this survey on 12 Aug 1997 after a visit on 22 Jul 1997.

BISTRITA I: Bistrita County
The cemetery is located in Bistrita, Ghinzii Str. no. 48, cod 4400, judet Bistrita, Romania at 4708 2429, 202.0 miles NNW of Bucharest and 123 km from Cluj. The alternate names are Besztercze (Hungarian) and Bistritz (German.) Present town population is 25,000-100,000 with 10-100 Jews.

The Jewish population by census was 1869-1870 registered 229, by 1880 census was 378, by 1900 census was 1316 and by 1930 census was 2177. Jews were admitted in the town only after 1850. In May 1944, the Jews were gathered in the ghetto and on June 2 and 6 were deported to Auschwitz. Some Jews from this area were gathered and killed near Bistrita in a place currently called "Statiunea Pomicola." Noteworthy Jewish resident of the community was Spitz Meir (1888-1944), rabbi in Bistrita from 1912 to 1944. The unlandmarked Orthodox cemetery was established in 19th century. Last known burial was 20th century.

The isolated suburban flat land has no sign or marker. Reached by a public road, access is open with permission. A fence with a gate that locks surrounds the site. Approximate pre- and post-WWII size is 300 m x 100m. 500-5000 stones are visible. 100-500 stones are not in original location. 25%-50% of the stones are toppled or broken. Location of stones removed from the cemetery is unknown. Vegetation overgrowth in the cemetery is not a problem. Water drainage is good all year.

No special sections. Gravestones date from the 17th century. [sic] The marble, granite, sandstone, and limestone gravestones, some with traces of painting on their surfaces and metal fences around graves have Hebrew and Yiddish inscriptions. No known mass graves. The national Jewish community owns the property used for Jewish cemetery and an orchard. Adjacent property is forest. Occasionally, private Jewish or non-Jewish visitors stop. The never vandalized cemetery maintenance has been re-erection, cleaning and patching of stones, clearing vegetation, and gate repair. Current care is occasional clearing or cleaning by unpaid individuals. Within the limits of the cemetery is the caretaker's house.

Cosmina Popa, Tatra Str. no. 4, tel. 064/ 128764, Cluj Napoca, 3400 and Ioana Raiciu, Bd. 21 Decembrie, 13-15, 064/190849, Cluj-Napoca, 3400 visited the site and completed the survey on July 21, 2000 using the following documentation:

They interviewed Deac, Bistrita. [January 2003]

BISTRITA II: Bistrita County
The cemetery is located at Bistrita, Nasaudului Str. no. 100, cod 4400, judet Bistrita, Romania. See BISTRITA I for town information. The Orthodox landmarked cemetery was established in 1944 with two monuments of the victims of the Holocaust. Last known burial was 1944.

The isolated suburban flat land has no sign or marker. Reached via private road,
access is open with permission. A fence with a gate that locks surrounds the site. Approximate pre-and post-WWII size is 8 m x 10 m. 1-20 stones are visible. All gravestones are in original location. More than 75% of the stones are toppled or broken. Location of stones removed from the cemetery is unknown. Vegetation overgrowth in the cemetery is a seasonal problem preventing access. Water drainage is good all year.

No special sections. The oldest known gravestone dates from 1944. Tombstones date from the 20th century. The marble smoothed and inscribed common gravestones have Hebrew inscriptions. The cemetery has Holocaust memorial. The cemetery contains marked mass graves. The national Jewish community owns the property used for Jewish cemetery only. Adjacent properties are agricultural. Rarely, private Jewish or non-Jewish visitors stop.

The never vandalized cemetery maintenance has been clearing vegetation. Current care is occasional clearing or cleaning by unpaid individuals. No structures. Vegetation is a moderate threat since the vegetation grows all over the monuments.

Cosmina Popa, Tatra Str. no. 4, tel. 064/ 128764, Cluj Napoca, 3400 and Ioana Raiciu, Bd. 21 Decembrie, 13-15, 064/190849, Cluj-Napoca, 3400 visited the site and completed the survey on July 21, 2000 using the following documentation:

They interviewed no one. [January 2003]


BISTRITZ: see BISTRITA

BIVOLARI: (Vaslui judet) US Commission No. _
Bivolari is located in Vaslui judet, Moldavia region at 47°25' 27°30' , 45 km from Iasi. The town population is 5,000-25,000 with no Jews.

1838 Census registered 59 Jewish families and that from 1899 registered 112 Jewish inhabitants. The 1930 Census registered no Jewish inhabitants. The Jewish community dates from 1834. Prominent residents include Mordehai Hurvit, scholar rabbi. This Jewish cemetery was established in the 19th century. The last known Jewish burial in cemetery was in the 20th century.

The unlandmarked Orthodox cemetery is 0.5 km from the congregation that used it. The isolated, rural (agricultural) flat land has no sign or marker but has a gate that locks. Reached by turning directly off a public road, access is open with permission.

The pre- and post-WWII size is 170 m X 100 m. 500 – 5,000 gravestones are visible in the cemetery. 500 to 5,000 are in original location. 1 to 20 are not in original location. More than 75% are toppled or broken. More than 75% are toppled or broken. Vegetation overgrowth and water drainage in the cemetery are not problems.

The oldest gravestone dates from the 19th century. 20th century burials exist. The marble, limestone, and granite tombstones are rough stones or boulders, flat shaped stones, finely smoothed and inscribed stones, and flat stones with carved relief decoration, some with portraits on the stone and/or Hebrew and Romanian inscriptions.

The national Jewish community owns the cemetery property used for agricultural purposes. (crops or animal grazing). Adjacent properties are agricultural and residential. Compared to 1939, the cemetery boundaries enclose the same area. Rarely, private visitors (Jewish or non-Jewish) stop. The never vandalized cemetery has no regular but has a regular caretaker. No structures. Weather erosion and vegetation are slight threats.

Lucian Nastasa, Clinicilor str., no. 19, Cluj, Romania, tel. 064/190107. Email: nastasalucian@hotmail.com completed the survey on July 25, 2000 using the following documentation:

He visited July 24, 2000 and interviewed Chiriac Petru, com. Bivolari, Iasi judet. [June 2002]

BIXAD: Satu Mare County, Transylvania

The cemetery is located in Bixad, 3921, judet Satu Mare, Romania at 4756 2324, 273.9 miles NNW of Bucharest and 5 km from Negresti Oas. The alternate name is Bikszad (Hungarian.) Present town population is 1,000-5,000 with no Jews.

The 1880 Jewish population by census was 108, by 1900 census was 149, and in 1930 was 115. In May 1944, the Jews were gathered in the ghetto of Satu Mare and on May 19, 22, 26, 29, 30, 31, and June 1 were deported to Auschwitz. The cemetery was established in second half of the 19th century Last known burial was 1945 in the unlandmarked Orthodox, (Hasidic) cemetery.

The hill and hillside, separate but near other cemeteries, has no sign or marker. Reached via private property, access is open to all. A fence with a non-locking gate surrounds the site. Approximate pre-WWII size is unknown. Approximate post-WWII size is 48 x 36 m. 20-100 stones are visible, some not in original location. More than 75% of the stones are toppled or broken. Stones removed from the cemetery are probably in the farms. Vegetation overgrowth in the cemetery is not a problem. Water drainage is good all year.

The oldest known gravestone dates from second half of the 19th century. The 19th century marble, granite, limestone, and concrete flat shaped and smoothed and inscribed gravestones have Hebrew inscriptions. No known mass graves. The local Jewish community owns the property used for Jewish cemetery and orchard. Adjacent properties are agricultural and local cemetery. Rarely, private Jewish or non-Jewish visitors stop. The cemetery was not vandalized in the last ten years or occasionally in the last ten years. [sic] Maintenance has been cleaning stones and clearing vegetation. Current care is regular unpaid caretaker. No structures. Weather erosion is a moderate threat.

Claudia Ursutiu, Pietroasa Str. no. 21, 3400 Cluj Napoca, Romania, tel. 0040-64-151073 visited the site and completed the survey in July 2000 using the following documentation:

Claudia and Adrian Ursutiu interviewed Mois Ana, Bixad. [January 2003]


BLAJ: Alba, Transylvania
The cemetery is located at Str. Eroilor no. 8, Blaj, judet Alba, 4611 2355, 160.7 miles NW of Bucharest and 50 km from Alba Iulia. The alternate name is Balazsfalva (Hungarian). Present town population is 25,000-100,000 with no Jews.

The 1880 Jewish population by census was 109 and in 1930 was 227. The unlandmarked Orthodox cemetery was established in 19th century with last known burial in 1998. The cemetery is 1 km from the congregation that used it.

The urban flat land, separate but near other cemeteries, has no sign or marker. Reached by a public road, access is open with permission. A masonry wall with a gate that locks surrounds the site. Approximate pre- and post-WWII size is 70 x 80 m. 100-500 stones are visible, all in original location. More than 75% of the stones are toppled or broken. Location of stones removed from the cemetery is unknown. Vegetation overgrowth in the cemetery is not a problem. Water drainage is good all year. No special sections.

The oldest known gravestone dates from about.1915. The 20th century marble, granite, limestone, and sandstone boulders, flat shaped, smoothed and inscribed, sandstone, and slate have Hebrew, German, Romanian, and Hungarian inscriptions. Some have portraits on stones and metal fences around graves. The national Jewish community owns the property used for Jewish cemetery only. Adjacent properties are residential. Occasionally, private Jewish or non-Jewish visitors stop. The never vandalized cemetery maintenance has been clearing vegetation and wall repair. Current care is unpaid regular caretaker. No structures.

Lucian Nastasă, Clinicilor Str., no. 19, Cluj, Romania, tel. 064/190107. Email: Nastasălucian@hotmail.com visited the site and completed the survey on October 30, 2000 using the following documentation:

Lucian Nastasă interviewed Abraham Geza, Str. Tudor Vladimirescu no. 4, Alba Iulia, Romania. Phone: 00/40/58/817840. [January 2003]


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