ILLINOIS

Alton National Cemetery in Illinois is a small but historically significant U.S. military cemetery located in Alton along the Mississippi River. It covers only about half an acre and contains a little over 500 burials, making it one of the smallest national cemeteries in the country.

The site dates back to around 1870 and originally functioned as part of a local cemetery before later coming under federal control in 1940. Its primary historical importance comes from the American Civil War era, when it became a burial place for Union soldiers who died in nearby military hospitals or while being transported along the Mississippi River. Some burials also include prisoners of war and soldiers from Illinois regiments who died in service during that period.

Unlike larger national cemeteries, Alton National Cemetery does not contain widely known national figures or famous military leaders. Instead, its significance lies in the collective memory of Civil War service members, including many unknown soldiers and hospital deaths. A number of small-unit officers from the Civil War are also buried there, but no nationally prominent or Medal of Honor–recognized individuals are confirmed at the site.

Today, the cemetery is closed to new burials except for limited family interments in existing graves. It is maintained by the Department of Veterans Affairs and remains open to the public as a historic site, recognized for its role in preserving the legacy of Civil War military history in the region.