Seven hundred and fifty souls. Unknown to most. Yet their names are known. That’s the paradox of the Mexico City National Cemetery. This isn’t just a resting place. It’s a poignant testament to a forgotten war.
Established in 1851. The Mexico City National Cemetery was the first US military cemetery abroad. It was created to gather the American dead of the Mexican-American War. These soldiers lay scattered across the fields nearby. The cemetery provided a dignified burial space. It served as a model for future cemeteries overseas.
The initial two acres cost a mere $3000. Further improvements added another $1734. In 1853 750 fallen soldiers were laid to rest. Their common grave marked by a modest monument. The inscription speaks of 750 Americans known only to God. A poetic statement. Yet sadly untrue. All the names are meticulously recorded.
A curious detail. The cemetery keeper. Schneider. He was allowed to cultivate produce on the grounds. Cabbages. This led to a rather unflattering nickname. The locals called it the American cabbage-ground.
More than just soldiers rest here. 813 additional Americans and others lie in crypts. Veterans from various conflicts. The Civil War the Spanish-American War. Even members of the US diplomatic service. This one-acre plot. In the heart of a sprawling metropolis. Holds a rich and often overlooked history.
The Mexico City National Cemetery closed to new burials in 1923. A highway construction project in 1976 shrunk its size. Many remains were moved. Reinterred in new crypts. The site now stands as a quiet reminder. Of sacrifices made long ago. A place of peace and reflection. The Mexico City National Cemetery. A testament to history. A place of remembrance. Open daily. Except Christmas and New Year’s Day. Come and pay your respects.