Historical Societies & Preservation Commissions
Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery
On October 3, 1999,
Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery was dedicated as the 117th national cemetery within the Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration. This beautiful, serene environment bring thousands of visitors each year from all over the United States to honor those who have served their country.
The Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery lies in the northwestern area of the former Joliet Army Ammunition Plant, odd of Route 53 in Elwood. Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery is named after the 16th president of the United States and founder of the national cemetery system. Early in the Civil War, on July 17,
1862 President Lincoln's signature enacted the law authorizing the establishment of national cemeteries "... for the soldiers who die in the service of the country." The first 14 national cemeteries opened pursuant
of this legislation.
President Lincoln's legacy is especially important to the people of Illinois , where he lived, worked in a successful law practice and was elected State Assemblyman and Representative during the 13th Congress. Lincoln himself is buried in Oak Ridge Cemetery near the state capital in Springfield.