How many acres is Arlington cemetery?

Tourist Attractions

By Kristy Tolley

Arlington National Cemetery

Arlington National Cemetery is a United States military cemetery located in Arlington, Virginia, just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. It is the final resting place of over 400,000 military veterans and their immediate family members, as well as several notable figures in American history.

History of Arlington Cemetery

Arlington Cemetery has a rich history dating back to the Civil War. The land was originally owned by George Washington Parke Custis, the step-grandson of George Washington, and was later acquired by the federal government during the Civil War. The first military burial at Arlington took place in May 1864, and the cemetery has since grown to become one of the most important national cemeteries in the world.

Overview of Arlington Cemetery

Arlington Cemetery is a vast expanse of meticulously maintained grounds that cover more than 624 acres. Visitors to the cemetery can see a variety of memorials and monuments, including the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Challenger Memorial, and the Space Shuttle Columbia Memorial. The cemetery is also home to the Arlington House, the former home of Robert E. Lee, which serves as a museum and educational center.

Area of Arlington Cemetery

One of the most frequently asked questions about Arlington Cemetery is how large it is. The answer is that the cemetery covers a total of 624 acres, making it one of the largest national cemeteries in the United States. The grounds are divided into roughly 70 sections, with each section dedicated to a particular time period or conflict in American military history.

How Many Acres is Arlington Cemetery?

As mentioned earlier, Arlington Cemetery encompasses 624 acres of land. This includes the cemetery itself, as well as adjacent areas such as Memorial Avenue and the Women in Military Service for America Memorial.

Arlington Cemetery’s Size in Square Miles

To put Arlington Cemetery’s size in perspective, it covers just under one square mile of land. However, despite its relatively small size, the cemetery is home to an immense number of graves and memorials, making it a significant landmark in American history.

Arlington Cemetery’s Landmarks and Graves

Arlington Cemetery is home to several significant landmarks and gravesites, including the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which serves as a tribute to all unidentified American soldiers who have died in combat. Other notable gravesites include those of President John F. Kennedy and his family, as well as several Medal of Honor recipients.

Arlington Cemetery’s Military Significance

Arlington Cemetery holds great military significance, as it is a final resting place for tens of thousands of veterans from every major conflict in American history. The cemetery also serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military, and it is a place of solemn reflection and remembrance.

Management of Arlington Cemetery

Arlington Cemetery is managed by the Department of the Army, and it is operated by the United States Army Military District of Washington. The cemetery is open to visitors year-round, and it is staffed by a team of dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to ensure that the grounds are maintained to the highest standards.

Arlington Cemetery’s Visitors and Tourists

Arlington Cemetery is a popular destination for visitors and tourists from all over the world. The cemetery offers guided tours, and visitors are welcome to explore the grounds on their own. The cemetery is also home to several events throughout the year, including Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies.

Conclusion: Importance of Arlington Cemetery

Arlington Cemetery is an important symbol of American military history, and it serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have served in the armed forces. The cemetery is a place of peace and reflection, and it honors the memory of those who have given their lives in defense of freedom.

References and Further Reading

  • Arlington National Cemetery:
  • History of Arlington National Cemetery: https://www.history.com/topics/us-cities/arlington-national-cemetery
  • Section Map of Arlington National Cemetery:
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Kristy Tolley

Kristy Tolley, an accomplished editor at TravelAsker, boasts a rich background in travel content creation. Before TravelAsker, she led editorial efforts at Red Ventures Puerto Rico, shaping content for Platea English. Kristy's extensive two-decade career spans writing and editing travel topics, from destinations to road trips. Her passion for travel and storytelling inspire readers to embark on their own journeys.

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