Established 1895 · Capitol Hill, Seattle

A resting place for Civil War veterans, rejuvenated by the neighborhood community

The Grand Army of the Republic Cemetery is home to 526 graves of Union soldiers and their spouses. Friends of the GAR Cemetery Park (FGAR) is the volunteer community organization that works alongside Seattle Parks & Recreation to maintain the grounds, raise the flag each day, and keep this history close for the descendants and neighbors who visit.

Read the History Visit & Get Involved

Why FGAR exists

A Community Effort

Efforts to preserve and revitalize the GAR began with a series of Small and Simple grants from Seattle’s Department of Neighborhoods. Between 2003 and 2021, FGAR collaborated with Seattle Parks & Recreation and extensive community input to carry out a phased restoration of the park — removing and replacing non-native plants with low-maintenance plantings, installing a new irrigation system, and building the gravel drive-through entry. That restoration is now complete.

Today, the most important way to stay involved is simple: help keep the flag flying. Our daily flag-raising crew is always looking for a few more hands.

See the Restoration Story

The GAR Cemetery Park grounds — The flagpole on a sunny day in August, 2026

The Woman's Relief Corps monument at the GAR Cemetery — The Woman’s Relief Corps monument, at the center of the grounds.

Since 1895

History

The cemetery was founded in 1895. A century later, FGAR restored the grounds, mapped who is buried here, and researched the individual stories behind the 526 graves — including the notice that first galvanized the neighborhood to act.

Read the Full History

More than a cemetery

Visit

The GAR Cemetery is part of Seattle’s public park system, not just a historic burial ground. The open lawn and shade trees make it a nice place for a picnic, a game of catch, or an afternoon outdoors — whether or not Civil War history is your main interest.

Plan Your Visit

Open lawn and trees at the GAR Cemetery Park — Open lawn under mature trees, part of the public park system.

Get Involved

Join the Daily Flag Crew

For over twenty years, volunteers have raised and lowered the flag at the GAR every single day. It’s the simplest, most consistent way FGAR keeps faith with the veterans buried here — and we’re always looking for a few more hands to share the rotation.

Join the Flag Crew About FGAR

Volunteer raising the flag at the GAR Cemetery

Support with a Gift

Can’t volunteer your time? FGAR accepts donations. Email us and we’ll let you know the best way to give.

Email FGAR