Battleground National Cemetery

One of America’s smallest national cemeteries, specially commissioned by President Lincoln for Union soldiers who fought at the Battle of Fort Stevens — the battle that saved Washington. 41 soldiers were eventually buried here; the last veteran was interred in 1936.
The cemetery really is tiny; you’d never know it was here unless you happened to see it while driving on Georgia Ave. It’s well maintained, although picnicking is discouraged. Fort Stevens — one of 68 Civil War forts that once surrounded the District — is only a short drive away, and worth a visit as well.
In July 1864, these soldiers held the fort against a surprise attack from Jubal Early, who was hoping to scare General Grant enough to abandon the Union siege of Petersburg and rush to defend Washington. Early’s plan didn’t work, in no small part to their sacrifice.
What’s poignant about the casualties is some of them weren’t ‘combat’ soldiers; Grant pulled most of Washington’s garrison away from ‘easy duty’ guarding the forts into the Army of the Potomac, which was suffering heavy casualties. All that were left to defend the city were trainees, semi-​invalids, and a small number of veterans, augmented at the last minute with reinforcements sent by Grant. Despite that, they fought off a larger enemy force.
Had Early even temporarily captured Washington, it potentially could have caused Grant to end his siege, scared the northern public enough to sue for peace, and ended Lincoln’s hopes for reelection. US history would have been different. So… respect.

This morning’s attitude adjustment brought to you by Battleground National Cemetery.
Hidden in plain sight on Georgia avenue is a tiny little cemetery where soldiers who died in the battle of Fort Stevens are buried. Driving up and down Georgia, I’ve always noticed the civil war cannons marking the entrance with curiosity. Normally, we fly, drive and pay for tours of historic sites… and here is one not 5 blocks from my house. So today, on my walk back from Starbucks… I said WTH and walked up the stairs between those two cannons.
It’s a peaceful little place, surprisingly quiet given its address on Georgia. There is a caretaker’s stone house, and a central walkway that leads to a large flagpole which is surrounded by the graves. The soldiers are buried in a circle, in an inner and outer ring. There is a large monument in the rear of the site, and 4 markers near the entrance. The headstones are tiny enough to make me think they are originals, and most are still legible. The walkway has several interesting displays provided by the national park service, one showing the flags of the battalions present, registries of the solders with age, rank, etc…
The story of Fort Stevens (like many war stories) is pretty interesting. If you liked 300, you’ll be able to appreciate it — A small group of men assembled from at least a dozen different battalions held off a confederate attack on DC in 1864. 59 died (41 of whom are buried here) but took out about 500 Confederate soldiers. Lincoln attended this battle (and was shot at, the only time a US pres has been under enemy fire)…and in the end he personally presided over the dedication of this burial site.
Cemeteries are a favorite of mine for keeping things in perspective. They remind you that it’s not that bad, nothing is that big of a deal, and to make today count. This little gem is no exception. It’s worth the 10 minute stop if you happen to be on Georgia… you can park on the street directly at the entrance (odds are, you’ll be the only one there).