Jefferson City National Cemetery

Jefferson City National Cemetery is a military burial ground with organized rows of white headstones set across maintained grounds, marking the graves of service members from multiple wars. The layout reflects the formal nature of a national cemetery established during the Civil War era.

Founded in 1861 during the Civil War, the cemetery received its national designation in 1867 as conflict persisted and military losses mounted. This period marked the beginning of its role as a permanent repository for service members from ongoing and future conflicts.

The 39th Regiment Monument honors Missouri Volunteer Infantry soldiers who died at Centralia. Walking through the grounds reveals how this place serves as a space where communities remember military service.

The grounds are open to visitors from sunrise to sunset, with specific rules governing floral arrangements and decorations at graves. Respectful behavior and staying on designated paths help maintain the solemn nature of the site.

The site features interpretive signs placed throughout the grounds that detail significant Civil War events and military history themes. These markers help visitors connect specific stories from the past to the individuals buried here.