Mercer County Cemetery in Trenton will hold a special event on April 9, 2025, to mark the 160th anniversary of the end of the Civil War. Home to the graves of nearly 200 Civil War veterans, the cemetery will host a program that includes a tribute to significant moments such as the surrender at Appomattox.
The cemetery, established in 1843 as New Jersey’s first nonsecular burial ground, features Victorian-era decorative monuments. It is the final resting place of many influential figures from Trenton's early industry and business sectors, in addition to its Civil War veterans.
Mayor Reed Gusciora of Trenton highlighted the city’s historical role during the conflict, stating, “Trenton’s ironworks provided crucial support to the Union, while our residents — both men and women — made vital contributions to the fight for freedom.” He emphasized how the city’s location and industrial capabilities supported the war effort and contributed to Trenton's later industrial growth.
The free event will pay tribute to two notable veterans interred at Mercer Cemetery: Medal of Honor recipient Sgt. John Beech and Capt. Ellis Hamilton, New Jersey’s youngest commissioned officer in the Union Army. Beech was honored for his bravery during the Battle of Spotsylvania Court House, while Hamilton was promoted posthumously after he died at age 18 following the Battle of the Wilderness.
Thomas Barclay, board president of Mercer Cemetery, commented, “We are proud to honor these veterans and commemorate the pivotal events that helped shape the history of our nation.”
The event will take place at the cemetery on S. Clinton Ave. in Trenton. It will feature speeches from local officials, veterans, and community representatives. Pre-tours begin at 11 a.m., followed by the program at noon.
Mercer County Executive Dan Benson underscored the importance of the commemoration, stating, “Hundreds of service members gave the last full measure in pursuit of that victory and were laid to rest in Mercer County.”
For further details, contact Thomas Barclay at mercercemeterytrenton@gmail.com or Terry West at twest@mercercounty.org.
