San Francisco National Cemetery

Family and friends come to San Francisco National Cemetery to remember those they’ve lost. It also welcomes visitors looking to connect with stories from the Presidio’s long history as a U.S. Army post.

History of San Francisco National Cemetery

After the U.S. Army took control of the Presidio, it established a small cemetery west of the Main Post. In 1884, the War Department established a larger National Cemetery on higher ground overlooking the bay. San Francisco National Cemetery is the first national cemetery on the west coast. In 1973, it stopped accepting new burials, except for family members with an existing plot.

How to Visit National Cemetery

San Francisco National Cemetery is managed by the Department of Veterans Affairs and is open daily from 6 am to 6 pm. All are welcome to visit.

Notable Figures

Those buried here include Pauline Cushman-Fryer, an actress turned heroic Union Spy, and Major Dana Crissy for whom Crissy Field is named.

Buffalo Soldiers

Over 450 Buffalo Soldiers are buried in San Francisco National Cemetery, including Pvt. William Thompkins, who took part in the rescue of wounded troops in Cuba during the Spanish-American War. Some Buffalo Soldiers were also part of units that were among the first to patrol the national parks. Learn more on the National Park Service website.

Memorial Day Tradition

Every Memorial Day, San Francisco Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts decorate each grave in the cemetery with an American flag.

Korean War Memorial

Established in 2016, the Korean War Memorial in the Presidio is located just outside the cemetery’s gate on Lincoln Boulevard.