Held on August 8, 1885 in New York City, Grant’s funeral procession surpassed any public demonstration in the country up until that time, with an attendance of 1.5 million people, and additional ceremonies held in other major cities around the country.
General Grant Funeral, 1912
Library of Congress
The day was described as a final, triumphant end to the national drama begun by the Civil War, as well as a day to praise Grant’s role in preserving the Union.
Ulysses S. Grant Funeral Process, 1885
Library of Congress
A newspaper editorial proclaimed that Grant’s life did not need to be remembered in sculpture, pictures, prose, or poetry because “the union is his monument.”
Notables in carriages in parade and spectators along street for the funeral of Pres. Ulysses S. Grant, New York City, 1885
Library of Congress
The theme of unity was advanced by President Grover Cleveland when he appointed former Confederate Generals Joseph Johnston and Simon B. Buckner to join Union Generals William T. Sherman and Philip H. Sheridan as pallbearers.
Temporary Tomb of General Grant, Riverside Park, 1886
Library of Congress
The New York Herald wrote in their publication after Grant's death that “he had his faults, who has not? We cannot see them because the brilliancy of his deeds shines in our eyes.”