News Release

Memorial Day at Poplar Grove

Places like Poplar Grove National Cemetery reflect the tragedy that befell the United States during the Civil War. Each simple headstone is a poignant reminder of the human cost of war.

News Release Date: May 8, 2024

Contact: Emmanuel Dabney, 804-732-3531 ext. 305

PETERSBURG, Va — Petersburg National Battlefield invites the public to attend a Memorial Day ceremony at Poplar Grove National Cemetery at 1:00 pm on Monday, May 27. The program will explore the origins of Memorial Day and national cemeteries, and their links to the Civil War, through readings of period letters, speeches, and proclamations. Visitors will then be provided with fresh flowers to decorate soldiers’ graves.

Due to space limitations, no parking will be allowed at Poplar Grove National Cemetery. Visitors can park at Richard Bland College (11301 Johnson Road), where a free shuttle will provide transportation to and from the cemetery. The first shuttle will depart from Richard Bland College at 12:00 pm and will make continuous round trips to the cemetery with the last shuttle departing Poplar Grove at 12:45 pm. Shuttles will resume to return visitors to Richard Bland College starting at 2:00 pm with the final bus leaving at 3:00 pm.

This event may be canceled due to forecasted inclement weather. The public will be notified through the park’s official website and social media if the event must be canceled. For more information, please call [phone], ext. 305.

Learn more about Petersburg National Battlefield by following @PetersburgNPS on social media.