Vice President Wilson's Funeral Procession Mourned in Boston

The late VP's casket was transported from New York to Boston and Natick in November 1875.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 12:50am

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In November 1875, a train left New York City carrying the casket of Vice President Henry Wilson, who had served under President Ulysses S. Grant. The train transported Wilson's remains to Boston and Natick, Massachusetts, where large crowds gathered to mourn the late VP's passing.

Why it matters

Vice President Wilson's death and funeral procession were major national events in the aftermath of the Civil War, as the country mourned the loss of a prominent political figure. The public outpouring of grief in Boston and Natick highlighted Wilson's legacy and the deep respect he commanded.

The details

Wilson's casket was transported from New York to Boston, where it was met by a large procession of mourners. The casket was then taken to Natick, Wilson's hometown, for a funeral service and burial.

  • On November 27, 1875, a train left New York City carrying Vice President Wilson's casket.
  • The train arrived in Boston, where a procession of mourners gathered to pay respects.
  • The casket was then transported to Natick, Massachusetts, Wilson's hometown, for a funeral service.

The players

Henry Wilson

The 18th Vice President of the United States, who served under President Ulysses S. Grant.

Ulysses S. Grant

The 18th President of the United States, who served during the Civil War and had Vice President Wilson as his second-in-command.

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The takeaway

Vice President Wilson's funeral procession through Boston and Natick was a solemn national event that highlighted his prominent political career and the deep respect he commanded, even in the aftermath of the divisive Civil War.