Platte River Scenic Trails
Fort McPherson National Cemetery, NE

Fort McPherson began as a fort that provided protection for settlers and those building the railroad. In 1863 a national cemetery was established at the fort. This National Cemetery then became the resting place of many who had died in the service of their country. From the settlement of the West to the Civil War to the Vietnam War, those who have fallen are honored at the National Cemetery. Many of those buried at Fort McPherson National Cemetery were killed as they moved west. Some, such as Lieutenant Gratten, were killed in disputes with the Indians, while others, such as those of Company F, 3rd U.S. Cavalry, died in natural disasters, such as flash floods. Indian scouts also played an important part of the settlement of the West, and Spotted Horse, a Pawnee Indian, is also buried in the cemetery.