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Funeral of Ulysses S. Grant

Black and white photo of a funeral procession going down the street with crowds of people on the sidewalk on either end and high buildings surrounding
Funeral of Ulysses S. Grant, August 8, 1885

National Park Service

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.
Black and white photo of horses with men on them pulling a dark carriage along a street with people in the background curb watching
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.
Black and white photo of the back view of a funeral procession of horses and carriages going up a street with crowds along the sidewalk watching
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.”
Black and white birds eye view of a funeral procession taking place with people inside multiple carriages pulled by horses
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.
Black and white photo of a crowd of people in a line along grass with a small tomb to the right of them
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.”

Last updated: July 22, 2021