The cemetery was established in 1868 for Union soldiers who died during the Petersburg and Appomattox campaigns. Of the 6,178 interments, 4,110 are unknown. Veterans from other wars are also buried at Poplar Grove. Each simple headstone is a poignant reminder of the human cost of war. In 1933 responsibility of the cemetery was transferred from the War Department to the National Park Service (NPS). Poplar Grove is one of fourteen National Cemeteries administered by the NPS.

If you have any questions about the soldiers buried at Poplar Grove, please contact Petersburg National Battlefield at (804) 732-3531.