The Alexandria National Cemetery, established in 1862, is one of the original 14 national cemeteries created during the Civil War. Over 3,500 Union soldiers were laid to rest here, including 249 members of the United States Colored Troops. Now closed to new burials, it serves as a serene final resting place commemorating the sacrifice of our military heroes.
History
Alexandria National Cemetery was established in 1862 when Congress authorized President Lincoln to purchase land for a military burial ground. The cemetery site was chosen for its proximity to the numerous Union hospitals treating Civil War casualties around Alexandria.
The first burials were soldiers who perished in local hospitals and camps. By 1864, Alexandria National Cemetery was nearly at full capacity, with over 3,000 graves. This dire need for space led Congress to create Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, VA.
After the war, Alexandria National Cemetery was expanded with the post-war addition of over 500 graves. It remained an active military cemetery until its formal closure to new interments in 1967, with only subsequent burials permitted in existing family plots.
The cemetery’s centerpiece is the iconic superintendent’s lodge constructed around 1870. Its eye-catching red Seneca sandstone and brick exterior mirrors the popular “brownstone” architecture of 19th-century Washington D.C.
Notable Burials
The Alexandria National Cemetery is the final resting place for many notable individuals who served their country with distinction. To learn more about the prominent interments at the Alexandria National Cemetery and explore their fascinating stories, please visit our Alexandria National Cemetery Notable Burials page.
Location and Hours
Address:
1450 Wilkes St., Alexandria, VA 22314
Hours:
8:00 am – 5:00 pm daily
(Extended hours on Memorial Day)
Rules and Guidelines
Please visit the following link to read the rules and guidelines for the Alexandria National Cemetery [Link to rules]
Management and Operations
The director of the Quantico National Cemetery manages the Alexandria National Cemetery.
Contact:
Quantico National Cemetery
P.O. Box 10
Triangle, VA 22172
Burial Information
The cemetery is closed to new interments except for subsequent burials in existing family plots.
To schedule an eligible burial, fax discharge documentation to the National Cemetery Scheduling Office and follow up by phone:
Fax: 1-866-900-6417
Phone: 1-800-535-1117
Ceremonies and Group Visits
Cemetery Events Scheduling Ceremonies and Events All ceremonies, events, and large group visits at Alexandria National Cemetery require Department of Veterans Affairs approval. This includes any ceremony or event beyond committing remains or placing flowers/flags at grave markers.
To request approval for hosting a ceremony or event at the cemetery, please contact:
Alexandria National Cemetery Management National Memorial Cemetery at Quantico 18424 Joplin Rd Triangle, VA 22172
Phone: 703-221-2183 Fax: 703-221-2185
Weapons Policy
Firearms are strictly prohibited on VA national cemetery grounds except for authorized purposes such as military funerals. Violators may face fines, removal, or arrest.
Map Reference
See the map below for the location within the Wilkes Street Cemetery Complex.
