Fort McPherson National Cemetery | North Platte

Information

Landmark: Fort McPherson National Cemetery
City: North Platte
Country: USA Nebraska
Continent: North America

Fort McPherson National Cemetery, North Platte, USA Nebraska, North America

Fort McPherson National Cemetery is a United States National Cemetery located in North Platte, Nebraska. It serves as a final resting place for military veterans and their families.

Visual Characteristics

The cemetery grounds are characterized by a grid layout of uniform white headstones. The landscape is primarily grassland with mature trees providing shade along some pathways. The central administration building is constructed of brick.

Location & Access Logistics

Fort McPherson National Cemetery is situated approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles) west of North Platte, Nebraska, along State Highway 30. Access is directly from Highway 30. Ample parking is available on-site. No public transport services are available directly to the cemetery.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Established in 1873, the cemetery was created to inter Union soldiers who died during the Plains Indian Wars and subsequent conflicts. It was designated a National Cemetery in 1937. The site is located on prairie land, typical of the Nebraska Sandhills ecological region.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the orderly rows of headstones, representing service members from various conflicts. The National Cemetery Administration provides information on notable interments. Walking the grounds offers a quiet space for reflection.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the administration building. Limited shade is provided by trees. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. No food vendors are present on cemetery grounds; visitors should plan accordingly.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for photography is during the early morning or late afternoon when the sun angle creates shadows that define the headstones. Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) offer moderate temperatures for visiting. Summer months can experience high temperatures.

Facts & Legends

A notable feature is the "Soldiers' Rest" section, containing the graves of 100 unidentified Union soldiers from the Battle of Summit Springs in 1869. The cemetery is also the final resting place for Buffalo Soldiers who served at Fort McPherson.