Memorial Day (Decoration Day)
ALTON'S FIRST DECORATION DAY
(MEMORIAL DAY)
Source: Alton Telegraph, June 5, 1868
The ceremony of decorating with wreaths and flowers the graves of
the soldiers buried in the cemeteries of Alton and Upper Alton took
place on Saturday last [May 30, 1868], under the auspices of the
Alton Post of the Grand Army of the Republic, and was a most
interesting and eventful occasion. For several days the arrangements
for the ceremonies have been in progress, and the Union citizens
tendered those engaged in the preparations every assistance in their
power. The loyal ladies of the place had contributed for the
occasion the choicest of spring flowers, which their tasteful hands
had fashioned into the most beautiful of wreaths, bouquets, and
garlands.
The Alton Post of the Grand Army of the Republic is but newly
organized and is still weak in numbers, but on its rolls are found
the names of as gallant heroes as the war called forth. The names of
men are there who answered to the roll call under the beleaguered
batteries of Vicksburg; upon the shores of the Gulf; on the "march
to the sea;" and on the plains of Virginia.
The procession was formed about ten o'clock a.m. at the hall of the
Post. First in order came the band; next the members of the Post,
clad in their handsome *Zouave uniform, and armed and equipped; then
followed in carriages and barouches the invited guests, and many
ladies and young girls. Flags and banners were numerous, and the
whole display was extremely creditable. The soldierly bearing and
fine appearance of the soldiers were especially noticeable. The line
of march was then taken up to Middletown, and from thence through
the principal streets of the city; after which they returned to
their hall where a lunch was partaken of. The procession was then
reformed, and proceeded to the cemetery. The ceremonies at this
place were opened with prayer by the Post Chaplain, Lieutenant
William Cousley, after which the ladies proceeded to decorate with
the wreaths and flowers the last resting places of the patriot dead.
About 110 graves received this tribute of attention. A martial
salute was then fired over the graves by the soldiers. Eloquent and
impressive addresses, appropriate to the occasion, were then
delivered by Captain Flannigan, Commander of the Post, Professor
Mitchell of Upper Alton, Captain Keith of Indiana, and other
gentlemen.
After leaving the cemetery, the procession proceeded to Upper Alton,
where it marched through the principal streets and then proceeded to
the cemetery of that place, where the same impressive ceremonies
were performed, and speeches were made by Rev. Dr. Frazer of this
city, and Rev. Mr. Root of Upper Alton. At Upper Alton the
participants in the exercises were most cordially received by the
inhabitants, and every assistance possible rendered them in the
performance of their sacred duty. On the conclusion of the exercises
at this cemetery, the procession returned to Alton and dispersed.
One of the pleasantest incidents of the day was the call made upon
Captain Johnson of Upper Alton. This gentleman was desperately
wounded at Atlanta four years ago, and has ever since been confined
to his bed. The character of his wound is such that he is compelled
to lie constantly in one position - upon his face. The members of
the Post testified their sympathy for this long-suffering hero by
visiting him, giving him each a hand clasp and a kindly word, and
then uniting in patriotic songs, together with music by the band.
The day was a beautiful one, and all the ceremonies passed off in a
manner befitting the solemnity of the occasion. We trust that the
tendering of this graceful and tender tribute to the memory of our
slain heroes will be continued from year to year, as long as the
country endures for which they sacrificed their all. It will serve
to keep green the remembrance of how great has been the price paid
for the maintenance of free institutions; and also, it will serve to
keep alive the memory of the gratitude due the survivors of the
Republic's defenders, and the widows and orphans of those of who
have fallen.
*******
*The Zouaves were originally part of the French Army. Their uniform
and tactics were based on those of the Algerian Berbers, who earned
a reputation for the fast moving, agile fighting style. Their
uniform was distinctive – baggy trousers, short open jacket, sash,
and oriental headgear. A New York clerk named Elmer Ephraim
Ellsworth was behind the first Zouave unit to be noticed in the
United States. He had learned their drills from a manual, and
combined these with the American style military drill. He took over
a local drilling team named the Rockford City Greys, which was
founded in 1859, and renamed them Zouave Cadets. They gained
reputation, and Ellsworth commanded the U. S. Zouave Cadets. He met
Abraham Lincoln, and would go on to assemble the 11th New York
Infantry Regiment, a.k.a. Fire Zouaves. They were the first Zouave
Regiment to officially enter the Civil War. Following the outbreak
of the Civil War, several united from both Union and Confederate
sides adopted the name, appearance, and style of the Zouaves. The
Zouaves were involved in all the major battles of the war. The
uniform of the American Zouaves varied widely, owing to the
availability of fabrics and choices of the commanders. Ellsworth
died as the leader of the Fire Zouaves. After cutting a Confederate
flag off of the roof of the Marshal House Inn, he was shot by James
Jackson, the inn’s owner. Jackson was then killed by Zouave Corporal
Francis Brownell, which earned him the first medal of the Civil War.
DECORATION DAY
Source: Alton Telegraph, June 7, 1872
The anniversary of Decoration Day was more generally observed in
Alton Thursday than ever before. During the afternoon, the exercises
of the public schools were suspended, and many places of business
were closed. The day was beautiful – fair, blue skies, and a
pleasant atmosphere. The favorable weather was a fortunate
occurrence for the success of the ceremonies. At two o’clock, the
people began to gather at Turner Hall. The Hall had been beautifully
decorated for the occasion. The speaker’s platform was especially
attractive, being a perfect bower of flowers, bouquets, wreaths,
festoons, and evergreens, through which floated streamers of crepe.
Fine portraits of Lincoln, Grant, and others added to the effect of
the ornamentation. On either side of the platform were stands of
arms, with pendent accoutrements, and all draped in crepe. The
committee on Decoration, and members of the Turnverein, are entitled
to great praise for their tasteful arrangements.
A few moments after two o’clock, Hon. John E. Detrich, President of
the day, called the meeting to order. Murphy’s Silver cornet Band
was in attendance, and discoursed appropriate music, after which the
services were opened with prayer by Rev. Mr. Butler. The audience
then united in singing “America,” led by Prof. Haight. The address
by H. S. Baker. At the close of the address, the citizens formed in
procession as follows: carriages with officers, clergy and speakers;
citizens on foot; floral wagon; citizens in carriages, preceded by
the band. Each participant in the procession carried bouquets or
baskets of flowers, and as the long line wound slowly over the
hills, keeping step to the solemn martial music, it was a sight that
will long linger in the memories of both the participants and
observers. On reaching the beautiful cemetery grounds, hundreds of
ladies and children, all carrying flowers, were found already
present. The procession proceeded first to the eastern slope of the
cemetery where the larger number of soldiers are buried, where under
direction of President Detrich, the exercises were opened with
prayer. Short addresses were then made by Dr. E. Gulich (in German),
Rev. A. B. Morrison, Rev. C. S. Armstrong, and Rev. M. K.
Whittlesey. In the intervals between the addresses, the graves were
decorated with flowers, the band discoursing appropriate music.
There are over one hundred soldiers’ graves in the enclosure, but as
the whole gathering, men, women, and children, participated in the
ceremony, and as flowers were abundant, every grave, known as a
soldier’s last resting place, was soon literally covered with
flowers, wreaths, and bouquets. None were knowingly overlooked, but
on all alike were strewn the fragrant memorials of gratitude and
affection. The ceremony of decoration was a beautiful and suggestive
spectacle, and the unanimity with which all engaged in it, the
tender care and solicitude shown that no grave should be neglected,
alike seemed to contradict the oft-repeated assertion that
“Republics are ungrateful.” No, the observance yesterday showed that
the sacrifice of the brave men who died that the Republic might live
will ever be held in grateful and tender remembrances. After the
close of the exercises, a portion of the procession reformed and
accompanied by the band, marched back to the Hall, where an
adjourned meeting was held, with Vice-President Weigler in the
chair.
DECORATION DAY
Plea to Decorate Graves of Confederates Also
Source: Alton Telegraph, May 16, 1873
This solemn, yet beautiful anniversary is rapidly approaching, and
the general opinion is that it will be more universally celebrated
this year than ever before. Governor Beveridge, in order to more
especially set apart the day for the purpose designed, has issued a
proclamation declaring it to be a legal holiday. This action will
enable all classes of our citizens to throw aside their business and
unite in an appropriate observance of the day. The committee
appointed last year will soon call a public meeting of citizens to
make arrangements for observing the day, appointing the necessary
committees, etc.
In this connection, there is a matter of which we wish to speak.
Heretofore it has been the custom to decorate only the graves of the
Union soldiers in the cemetery, but we trust this year, arrangements
will be made to deck the graves of the Confederate soldiers as well.
The Confederate Cemetery is situated on State Street, near the city
limits. It contains fifteen hundred graves, or thereabouts. Owing to
their great distance apart, both cemeteries could hardly be visited
by the same procession in one day; hence the labor would have in
some way to be divided. We offer these suggestions in regard to
decorating the Southern graves, as our own feelings in the matter,
and we feel sure it will meet with a fitting response in the hearts
of all. The sooner the animosities of the war are buried, the
better. Brave and generous men do not war with the dead. Remembering
the words of our martyred President, “with malice towards none, with
charity for all,” let us make our next memorial service an impartial
tribute to the brave men of the North and the South. It will be a
fit emblem of a reunited country.
DECORATION DAY
Source: Alton Telegraph, June 6, 1873
This sacred and impressive anniversary was very generally observed
in Alton. The banks, post office, and many business houses were
closed during the afternoon. The ladies of the Decoration Committee,
assisted by two or three gentlemen of the same committee, met at
Kirkland Hall in the morning, and decorated it for the exercises in
a most beautiful and tasteful manner. The stage was ornamented with
the national colors, and floral wreaths, crosses, shields, hearts,
and other fanciful designs, arranged with rare skill and taste,
producing a most attractive effect. Great credit due to those who
prepared so beautiful and impressive a display.
At the hour for the opening of the exercises, a large audience
assembled at the hall, the Bluff City Band discoursing appropriate
music. The exercises were opened with a prayer by Dr. C. M. Smith.
Vocal music followed, by Misses Katie Laird, Ida Hardy, Prof.
Haight, and A. L. Daniels. Captain Lewis, President of the day, then
made some fitting remarks and introduced the orator of the day –
Captain H. M. Scarritt.
The oration was a masterly production, and was received with close
attention by the audience. Next in excellence to its noble and broad
range of thought, its patriotic and Catholic spirit, may be ranked
its good taste and marked appropriateness to the day. It was no
political harangue or succession of Fourth of July platitudes, but a
lofty and dispassionate view of the causes leading to the great
struggle, of the issues involved, of the grand patriotism displayed
in the conflict, of the glorious result accomplished, of the fearful
sacrifices entailed by that success, and of the tender and lasting
gratitude which should ever be felt towards those who gave their
lives to save that of their country. The oration, both the subject
matter and fine delivery, were an honor to the speaker, and proved
that the committee on Oration did well in relying on home talent.
The address was warmly praised by all who were present, and the
commendation was richly deserved. At the close of the oration, vocal
music followed by the same quartette. The procession, consisting of
citizens on foot and in carriages, then formed in front of the Hall,
under direction of the Marshal, Major George S. Roper and Aides, and
marched to the cemetery, headed by the band. All who participated in
the procession carried floral offerings. In addition to those who
participated in the procession, large numbers of citizens either
preceded or accompanied them to the cemetery. The crowd present
there numbered over a thousand, a larger number, it was thought,
than were ever present there on preceding anniversaries. No
clergyman being present to offer the usual prayer, Captain Scarritt
offered the impressive Masonic grand honor, after which the ceremony
of decorating the graves took place. The band, meanwhile, played
appropriate music. Owing to the backwardness of the Spring, flowers
were not as plentiful as usual, still there were enough to deck the
graves of all the fallen braves who there sleep their eternal sleep.
After the completion of the solemn, yet beautiful memorial services,
the vast crowd dispersed. May every recurrence of this anniversary
be alike generally observed. It is certainly but a slight tribute of
our love and gratitude thus to spend one day in the year in doing
honor to the memory of those who gave their all for us and this dear
land.
DECORATION DAY IN ALTON
Source: Alton Weekly Telegraph, June 3, 1875
Of all the reminders of the late war, none are more significant,
none more fragrant of tender memories, none more eloquent of the
nation's sacrifice, than the annual observance of Decoration Day.
The suggestion of such a memorial of respect for departed valor was
an inspiration not alone of love and affection, but of patriotism as
well. It is a grander monument to the memory of our loved and lost
than any reared of granite or marble. Marble shafts are raised over
the dead, and then, perhaps, those who sleep beneath them are
forgotten. But the strewing of fresh flowers upon the graves of the
soldiers of the Republic, on a set day every year, is an eloquent
assertion that our remembrance of the departed is as perennial, and
our love for them as fragrant, as the fresh spring flowers we strew
on their graves. Saturday was a delightful day for the anniversary,
bright sunshine and cool, invigorating atmosphere. We regret to say,
however, that the interest in the observance was less general than
has been usually manifested, still quite a large company gathered at
the cemetery in the afternoon, in response to the Mayor's
recommendation, to participate in the services. All brought their
floral tributes with them, but owing to the lateness of the season,
flowers were scarce. Mayor Pfeiffenberger was present, and opened
the exercises with a few suitable remarks, when prayer was offered
by the Rev. Mr. Morrison. Rev. Mr. West of the Congregational church
made a brief and appropriate address, followed by Revs. Chase of the
Episcopal church, and Morrison of the Methodist church. All the
addresses were characterized by fervent patriotism and a tender
remembrance of the heroism and sacrifice of the fallen heroes. The
exercises were interspersed with singing, after which the decking of
the graves with flowers took place. Owing to the fact that the
flowers were few and the graves many, this part of the service was
not as complete as could have been desired. There are over 250
soldiers buried in that cemetery, and to decorate the graves of all
requires a large supply of flowers.
The Rev. Mr. West, in his address, strongly advocated the decking of
the graves of the Confederate soldiers also. The Telegraph has
previously warmly favored this course, believing that the time had
come to bury all animosities, and that such action would not
necessarily cause the people to lose sight of the fact that there
was a right and a wrong involved in the great struggle. But when a
man, even though greatly mistaken, is willing to give his life for a
cause he believes to be just, he is entitled, at least, to the
respect due to valor and self-sacrifice, even though we may battle
all our lives against the principles for which he died. And further:
A common sorrow makes all men akin. And are not our charity and
sympathy broad enough to deck the graves of those whose friends far
away cannot bestow this tribute of affection? Many others coincide
with the Telegraph in this opinion and had not the Confederate
Cemetery been two miles distance from that where the Union soldiers
are buried, we have no doubt that the commemoration would have been
extended to their last resting places also.
DECORATION DAY
Source: Alton Telegraph, May 31, 1877
At 3 o’clock yesterday afternoon, a large crowd consisting
principally of ladies had assembled at the City Cemetery to
participate in and witness the Decoration exercises. Business houses
were not generally closed because of no general agreement to that
effect, but the city schools gave a half holiday, and the teachers
and children in large numbers congregated at the cemetery. About
3:30 o’clock after the performance of Red, White, and Blue by the
band, Dr. Charles Davis, Chief Marshal, called the assemblage to
order, and announced that Captain F. Rudershausen, Assistant
Marshal, would take charge of the order of exercises. After more
music by the ban, Rev. Dr. Armstrong led in an effective feeling
prayer, which had a solemnizing influence on the crowd. Mr. S. B
Funk then read the Governor’s proclamation with reference to the
appropriate observance of the day, after which Prof. Haight led in
singing “My Country ‘tis of Thee.”
Dr. C. M. Smith was then introduced, and for a short time deeply
interested his auditors by a statement of the causes that led to the
observance of the day, and in the course of his remarks, gave a
thrilling description of the horrors of the battlefield, closing
with a tribute to the memory of “those who gave their lives for
privileges we now enjoy.” The band rendered an appropriate selection
in accordance with the order of exercises, after which Hon. J. H.
Yager, in a very eloquent manner, depicted the benefits and
privileges accruing to us from our form of government, the freest,
most beneficent, most nearly perfect of any the world has ever
known. He remarked that it was eminently fitting and proper that we
should come together when the flowers are blooming, birds singing,
the leaves quivering with the perfumed breeze, and spread garlands,
wreaths, and festoons of flowers above the dust of those who sleep
in honored graves.
Mr. Yager’s remarks were followed by “Old Hundred,” sung by the
audience, led by Prof. Haight, and it was then announced that
Captain Rudershausen and Mr. Charles Henick would lead in strewing
flowers on the solders’ graves. A large part of the assemblage took
part in this solemn ceremony, which was well and thoroughly done,
the band performing slow music at intervals. Several graves were
discovered that had not heretofore received tributes of flowers.
None were neglected. The vault at the gate was decorated in honor of
the Union officer who has lain there for about fourteen years.
After the observance of this duty, the people were again called
together by music, when Rev. Mr. Kline of Clinton, Missouri,
pronounced a prayer and benediction. The exercises were closed with
the performance of “Sleep, Beloved, Sleep,” by the band, after which
the assemblage dispersed, well pleased with the day’s observance.
The Marshal, Dr. Charles Davis, and his assistant, Captain F.
Rudershausen, deserve credit for their efforts to render the
services worthy of the occasion. The ladies of the city were very
efficient and faithful, both in supplying an abundance of flowers,
and in assisting in depositing them on the tombs of the honored
dead.
DECORATION DAY
Source: Alton Telegraph, June 6, 1878
The Alton Guards, 49 strong, under the command of Captain
Brueggemann, left Armory Hall at 2:45 in the afternoon, and marched
to the cemetery where they arrived at 3:20. In addition to the
military, some citizens on horseback and in carriages formed the
procession. The Guards marched through the gate of the new cemetery,
and went to the eastern part of the ground where an immense crowd
collected. They were called to order by Colonel Cooper, and prayer
was offered by Rev. George C. Adams of the Congregational Church,
after which Rev. F. L. Thomson of the Methodist Church delivered a
brief, telling, and appropriate address in eulogy of our dead
soldiers and the cause for which they died. He closed by expressing
the wish that the flowers would serve as emblems of a glorious
immortality when all should meet where there were no graves to
decorate. He also expressed the hope that war would never more
desolate this fair land, and that our citizen soldiery would never
be called to the field of strife.
Colonel Cooper then announced that the Guards and citizens would
strew flowers on the soldiers’ graves in the southeast part of the
old cemetery. After this was done, the Guards, at the command of
Captain Brueggemann, fired three volleys of blank cartridges over
the graves, with such success that each volley sounded almost as a
single report. This procedure was witnessed with great interest by
the immense crowd, who felt proud of our well-drilled soldiers. The
company then marched to the northwest part of the burial ground,
where after prayer by Rev. Dr. Armstrong of the Presbyterian Church,
the same ceremonies were gone through with.
Major Frank Moore’s war horse, ornamented with a fine floral wreath,
attracted great attention and many remarks at the cemetery.
According to the stories in circulation there, he has had a
remarkable career. He has been in five hundred battles, was wounded
seven times or sixteen times, was in the army five years and seven
years, is 21 years old and 32 years old, and is in the habit of
kneeling on his master’s grave at stated intervals. The last story
is especially extraordinary, for his master is remarkably lively to
be the owner of a grave, and is possessed of more than an average
share of strength and good looks. [Note: Major Frank Moore’s famous
war horse, which carried him through five years campaigning, from
the opening to the closing of the Civil War, died June 23, 1878, at
age 21 years. The horse was wounded seven times while in the
service.]
The return march then took place to music furnished by the martial
band, Messrs. Ward and Waterman. The order of march was frequently
changed while returning, the company showing the thoroughness of
their drill by the celerity with which they obeyed the various
orders. They marched to the Hall and were disbanded, and thus ended
one of the most imposing Decoration Days ever seen in Alton. The
cemetery was in fine order, flowers were offered in abundance, and
large numbers of graves in all parts of the grounds were ornamented
with bouquets, wreaths, and evergreens.
DECORATION DAY
Source: Alton Daily Telegraph, May 31, 1879
"With a cheer on the tongue and a tear in the eye,
With songs on the lip, while the heart hides a sigh,
With gladness we come, though in spirit we're weeping,
To garland the graves where our heroes are sleeping."
About three o'clock the Guards left Armory Hall [downtown Alton] for
the Cemetery. Colonels Cooper and Brenholt, Major Davis and Adjutant
Crane, of the 15th Battalion, were in attendance, the three first
named on horseback. The Guards, under command of Captain
Brueggemann, marched in fine order, with their magnificent banner
furled and appropriately draped, in advance of the company. Bluff
City Band and the Drum Corps rendered music alternately during the
march. A large number of citizens in carriages were in line and the
procession was large and imposing. Upon arriving at the gate of the
new division of the cemetery, the military with arms reversed,
accompanied by the musicians, marched in slow time to the eastern
part of the old cemetery where Col. Cooper, Officer of the Day,
called the assemblage to order and read the following introductory
address:
"Comrades and Fellow Citizens: We have assembled again in this
silent and solemn city of the dead for the observance of this day,
set apart by custom as Memorial Day, to pay another tribute of
respect to the memory of those whose lives have been a heroic and
patriotic sacrifice that our great and good nation might live. And
while we are permitted to live to enjoy what they died to preserve
and transmit to us, our hearts cannot feel nor our actions express
too deeply the great debt of gratitude and obligation we owe to
their memory. While they sleep the sleep that knows no waking, we
can show by our words and actions, that their memory is kept alive
in grateful remembrance by all citizens of this great and glorious
nation. To the patriot's heart, this is not a day for the
performance of an idle ceremony, but is a time for memory and for
tears - tears that shall water the graves of our heroic dead - tears
through which we can see the beautiful bow of promise for the future
of our loved country. And as we are about to deposit our floral
tributes, and drop the sympathetic tear on the graves of our soldier
dead, let us all, comrades and fellow citizens, attend to this
solemn duty in that spirit of patriotic solemnity and pathos which
the occasion requires."
Prayer was then offered by Rev. L. A. Abbott, and after music,
"Shall we gather at the River?" by the band, Rev. Fred L. Thomson,
orator of the day, delivered an eloquent address. He compared the
anxious hours of hope deferred in the days of the siege of
Vicksburg, the march to the sea, and other critical moments of the
war, to the present time when we can meet in peace to honor our dead
heroes. This is no partisan movement; this day, set apart to the
memory of those who gave their lives for the Union, is not a day for
party feeling; for love of country is above all sentiments or
motives that are controlled by party lines. If, however, love for
the stars and stripes, and devotion to principles symbolized by our
country's colors be partisan, then let us all be partisans to the
fullest extent, for this is the principle for which our soldiers
gave their lives. The speaker closed with a stirring appeal to the
military to ever stand firm for right, truth and justice, feeling
that it is an honor to be a citizen-soldier of the great Republic.
At the close of Mr. Thomson's address, which was listened to with
the most rapt attention by the vast throng, the Guards, under
command of Capt. Brueggemann, fired three volleys, each sounding
almost as one report. The soldiers' graves in the eastern part of
the Cemetery were then decorated, while the band performed a dirge.
The military then marched to the northeast part of the cemetery,
where after prayer by Dr. Armstrong and three volleys by the Guards,
the graves in that part of the grounds were decorated. The services
closed with the benediction by Rev. David Caughlan of East St.
Louis. After the exercises were over, the military marched to the
south part of the cemetery, where two barrels of ice water were in
readiness to slake the thirst of those who at that time felt the
need of the cooling beverage. The line of march was then taken up,
and the Guards returned to Armory Hall where they disbanded.
The observance, taken as a whole, was a grand success. Thanks to the
officers of the Fifteenth Battalion, to the Guards and their
office4rs, who managed the affair so well, everything went off in
perfect order. The people were present in large numbers, everyone
seemed deeply interested, a solemn quiet prevailed and the vast
quantity of beautiful, fragrant flowers, proved that the great
object of the day was not forgotten. A great many of the business
houses of the city were closed and the observance seemed more
general than ever before.
DECORATION DAY
Source: Alton Daily Telegraph, May 31, 1882
Business was generally suspended yesterday afternoon in honor of
Decoration Day. There was no program for the observance of the day,
everyone seeming to have waited for someone else to move in the
matter. The people, however, gathered in immense throngs at the
cemetery, laden with bouquets, wreaths, and baskets of flowers, and
proceeded to decorate the graves of the fallen heroes in the
customary manner. The graves in the southeastern portion of the
cemetery presented a very neat appearance, being marked by the new
government headstones. These neat marble tablets are inscribed with
the name, rank, company, and regiment of the deceased, except in
cases where the identity is unknown, when they bear simply the
inscription of “U. S. Solder.” The headstones have been placed in
position to the number of 112, and the remainder will soon be put in
place in the northern section of the grounds. All the graves were
appropriately remembered, those of strangers as well as of the Alton
soldiers whose remains lie in the home burial place. The day was
beautiful, and the quiet “city of the dead” never appeared a more
appropriate and peaceful resting place for the departed, after the
battles and hardships which preceded their entrance within its
gates. So profuse were the floral offerings placed upon the graves
that the grounds, before the close of the afternoon, resembled a
vast flower garden. So far as known, none were forgotten or
neglected. As usual, the grave of the martyr Lovejoy was crowned
with a profusion of floral offerings.
It is pleasant to record that as the years go by, the interest of
the people in this anniversary does not wane or the memory of the
fallen grow less tender. Although the days of mourning are past the
feeling of gratitude and love still glows and burns. All that we are
as a nation, all that we enjoy of peace and material prosperity, we
owe to the devotion of the patriots of 1861. This should be the
lesson of each recurring anniversary, “See to it that the dead died
not in vain.” It is ours to resolve that the curse of sectional war
shall never again visit our land; it is ours to preserve the unity
these heroes established between the States, and to hand down to the
succeeding generation the priceless heritage of Nationality we have
ourselves receives.
DECORATION DAY
Source: Alton Telegraph, June 3, 1886
Decoration Day was more generally observed Monday than ever before
in Alton, showing the interest felt in the services. Alton Post,
G.A.R., met at their hall on Third Street, and marched to City Hall,
headed by a martial band consisting of Mr. John Dillon of
Fosterburg, fifer; L. A. Real, Frank Lowe, William Adams, drummers.
The stage was nicely decorated. A large flag suspended at the rear;
at the wings were wreaths of evergreens; three muskets stacked at
each side, crowned with floral wreaths. On arriving at the hall,
after being called to order by Commander of the Post, C. A. Herb,
and music by Professor Gossrau’s band, devotional services were read
by Chaplain Flynn and the Order of the Day by Adjutant S. S. Hobart.
The Juno Quartette, Misses Blanche Murphy, Nena McAdams, Bessie
Hubbell, Ida Yager, sang “They Have Broken up Their Camps,” and were
greeted with applause.
The line of march was then formed, headed by the two bands. The old
soldiers were near the front, carrying muskets with the old flag
over them, Officer of the Day, H. M. Stamps in command. On Fifth
Street, the members of Turner School, in their neat uniforms, under
charge of Mr. Albert Ernst, and the Turners’ Society, were formed
and fell into the procession. After entering the city cemetery, with
muffled drums beating slow time, a dirge was performed by the band.
The G.A.R. decoration ritual was read by Commander Herb. Captain
David R. Sparks then introduced Rev. J. W. Phillips of Litchfield,
orator of the day. At the close, Rev J. Fisher of the Unitarian
Church read a fine poem by William Winter, titled, “A Pledge to the
Dead.” “America” was then sung by some members of the Philharmonic
Society and others. After firing a salute of honor, the G.A.R. and
others proceeded to decorate the graves with the rare and beautiful
flowers furnished in lavish abundance. Nothing could be more
beautiful and appropriate than this thoughtful tribute of placing
over each grave the flag the silent sleeper died to save. The
attendance at the cemetery was immense.
The people of Alton and Upper Alton and vicinity turned out enmasse
to pay their tribute of affectionate remembrance to the honored
dead. The program of the G.A.R. was in excellent taste, and under
the direction of Post Commander Herb, everything passed off in
perfect order.
In Edwardsville, about 800 people were present at the Oaklawn
Cemetery decoration ceremonies. Rev. E. M. West and W. P. Bradshaw
were the speakers. All graves of soldiers in the cemetery were
tastefully decorated, especially that of Captain J. J. Kinder.
The Moro members of the Bethalto Post 509, G.A.R., decorated the
graves of the five soldiers in the Moro Cemetery. In the afternoon,
they, with a number of others, attended the exercises at Bethalto.
Quite a number of Bethalto people attended Memorial services at
Bunker Hill and Edwardsville.
At Bethalto, the G.A.R. Post met at the hall, where Miss Emma Miller
presented a beautiful and costly banner (which the carried with them
to Edwardsville Monday). Commander Greenwood accepted the banner
with a few appropriate remarks, after which a line was formed,
headed by the Bethalto Cornet Band, marched to the cemetery west of
town, P. P. C. Flick acting as Grand Marshal. There are only five
soldiers buried at Bethalto, and their graves were sought out by the
Post and strewn with flowers. The citizens decorated the graves of
their loved ones.
DECORATION DAY
Source: Alton Daily Telegraph, May 31, 1887
Yesterday was one of the most delightful days of the pleasantest
month of the year, and all nature seemed to smile on the observance
of Decoration Day. During the forenoon, flowers of every imaginable
hue, redolent in fragrance, arranged in innumerable forms of beauty,
were carried to the city hall and left in charge of a committee of
the G.A.R. Professor Gossrau’s band appeared in front of the hall,
and enthused the crowds that thronged the streets by the admirable
rendition of patriotic strains of music. In a short time, the
members of the G.A.R. appeared, a noble band, many of them with
“silver threads among the gold,” some walking in a halting manner,
as though time and the trials of the momentous period ended 26 years
ago were telling on them. Yet, they marched with determination,
showing that they still remembered their dead comrades with a
reverence founded on a realizing sense of what the sleepers had
endured in the days of the war.
The procession was formed with the band in front, the veterans under
the direction of Post Commander Herb, a furled and draped flag borne
in their midst. Following the G.A.R. were many bright-eyed little
girls and boys, who marched by fours and lent a very pleasing
variety to the line. The members of the Post did not burden
themselves with muskets, but carried canes instead, also bouquets of
flowers. On arriving at Humboldt School (No. 5), the teachers and
pupils were found formed in line, and joined in the procession. This
was the only school in Alton that appeared in a body, and they
deserve due credit for their action. A large company of people,
thousands in number, assembled at the cemetery evincing patriotic
recognition of the importance of the observance. On the arrival of
the procession at the eastern part of the cemetery, the band
rendered a dirge, “Garlands of Flowers,” and Post Commander Herb
read the “Orders of the Day,” also an address on the “Duty of
Today.” A quartette, consisting of Misses Emma Harris, Minnie Boals,
Prof.’s Haight and Tarbet, rendered a beautiful song, “Hail the
Beautiful, the Grand, May it float forever o’er the Land.”
Rev. A. T. Wolff, D. D. of the Presbyterian Church, was then
introduced by the Post Commander, and delivered an eloquent address.
It was partly historical, commencing with the shot fired on Fort
Sumter 26 years ago; a shot that echoed o’er the land and roused the
nation. The ancient Greeks believed that while they engaged in the
battle, the shades of their dead heroes hung over them, watchful for
their welfare. May we not today imagine that white-robed spirits
hover over this sacred spot while we decorate their resting places.
A spirit of patriotism should pervade our teachings to our children.
No false sentiment should cause us to act as if doubtful as to the
eternal right and justice of the cause for which our soldiers fought
and died. Sectional feelings of hatred and animosity are passing
away, and one sentiment begins to pervade the whole country. The War
of the Rebellion was only the culmination of a struggle of over 200
years between two civilizations. The martyrdom of Lovejoy was
eloquently referred to; also, the troubles in Kansas, the death of
John Brown; the lightning flash of terrible war. Thank God today
that the “irrepressible conflict” ended with the complete triumph of
freedom. The struggle that so terminated was the most gigantic in
history. On March 1 1865, 965,591 soldiers were enrolled under the
Union banner. The grand total during the war was 2,628,523. Of
these, 60,000 were killed in batt;e 35,000 mortally wounded; 184,000
were treated in hospitals; 41,000 confined in southern prison pens.
In both armies, 400,000 were disabled. More than a mission of men
were lost to the country by the war. “to the harvest of death, these
men went willingly forth.” We come today to decorate their graves.
At the close of the address, the Post Commander read, “today is the
festival of our dead,” and the hymn, “My Country ‘tis of Thee” was
sung. The graves were then decorated, the band performing “The
Vacant Chair.”
DECORATION DAY – EDWARDSVILLE
Source: Alton Daily Telegraph, June 2, 1887
Decoration Day was observed well in Edwardsville and vicinity.
Sunday morning, Bishop Bowman of St. Louis delivered an appropriate
address in the city park to the Edwardsville Post of the G.A.R., and
their friends. In the afternoon, Judge Irwin delivered an address at
Barnsback Cemetery, several miles from here. Bishop bowman also made
a few remarks. Yesterday, the G.A.R. post of Edwardsville, Company
F, the fire company, and citizens formed a procession on Main
Street, headed by the Enterprise Band, and marched to the Catholic
Cemetery, Lusk Cemetery, and then to Woodlawn Cemetery, at each of
which the members of the G.A.R. decorated the graves of those who
were in the army during the rebellion (Civil War). At Woodlawn
Cemetery, Mr. B. R. Burroughs delivered an address, which was
suitable to the day and occasion.
MEMORIAL DAY SERVICES IN ALTON
Source: Alton Daily Telegraph, May 31, 1887
Yesterday was one of the most delightful days of the pleasantest
month of the year, and all nature seemed to smile on the observance
of Decoration Day. During the forenoon, flowers of every imaginable
hue, redolent in fragrance, arranged in innumerable forms of beauty,
were carried to the city hall and left in charge of a committee of
the G.A.R. Professor Gossrau’s band appeared in front of the hall,
and enthused the crowds that thronged the streets by the admirable
rendition of patriotic strains of music. In a short time, the
members of the G.A.R. appeared, a noble band, many of them with
“silver threads among the gold,” some walking in a halting manner,
as though time and the trials of the momentous period ended 26 years
ago were telling on them. Yet, they marched with determination,
showing that they still remembered their dead comrades with a
reverence founded on a realizing sense of what the sleepers had
endured in the days of the war.
The procession was formed with the band in front, the veterans under
the direction of Post Commander Herb, a furled and draped flag borne
in their midst. Following the G.A.R. were many bright-eyed little
girls and boys, who marched by fours and lent a very pleasing
variety to the line. The members of the Post did not burden
themselves with muskets, but carried canes instead, also bouquets of
flowers. On arriving at Humboldt School (No. 5), the teachers and
pupils were found formed in line, and joined in the procession. This
was the only school in Alton that appeared in a body, and they
deserve due credit for their action. A large company of people,
thousands in number, assembled at the cemetery evincing patriotic
recognition of the importance of the observance. On the arrival of
the procession at the eastern part of the cemetery, the band
rendered a dirge, “Garlands of Flowers,” and Post Commander Herb
read the “Orders of the Day,” also an address on the “Duty of
Today.” A quartette, consisting of Misses Emma Harris, Minnie Boals,
Prof.’s Haight and Tarbet, rendered a beautiful song, “Hail the
Beautiful, the Grand, May it float forever o’er the Land.”
Rev. A. T. Wolff, D. D. of the Presbyterian Church, was then
introduced by the Post Commander, and delivered an eloquent address.
It was partly historical, commencing with the shot fired on Fort
Sumter 26 years ago; a shot that echoed o’er the land and roused the
nation. The ancient Greeks believed that while they engaged in the
battle, the shades of their dead heroes hung over them, watchful for
their welfare. May we not today imagine that white-robed spirits
hover over this sacred spot while we decorate their resting places.
A spirit of patriotism should pervade our teachings to our children.
No false sentiment should cause us to act as if doubtful as to the
eternal right and justice of the cause for which our soldiers fought
and died. Sectional feelings of hatred and animosity are passing
away, and one sentiment begins to pervade the whole country. The War
of the Rebellion was only the culmination of a struggle of over 200
years between two civilizations. The martyrdom of Lovejoy was
eloquently referred to; also, the troubles in Kansas, the death of
John Brown; the lightning flash of terrible war. Thank God today
that the “irrepressible conflict” ended with the complete triumph of
freedom. The struggle that so terminated was the most gigantic in
history. On March 1 1865, 965,591 soldiers were enrolled under the
Union banner. The grand total during the war was 2,628,523. Of
these, 60,000 were killed in batt;e 35,000 mortally wounded; 184,000
were treated in hospitals; 41,000 confined in southern prison pens.
In both armies, 400,000 were disabled. More than a mission of men
were lost to the country by the war. “to the harvest of death, these
men went willingly forth.” We come today to decorate their graves.
At the close of the address, the Post Commander read, “today is the
festival of our dead,” and the hymn, “My Country ‘tis of Thee” was
sung. The graves were then decorated, the band performing “The
Vacant Chair.”
DECORATION DAY – EDWARDSVILLE
Source: Alton Daily Telegraph, June 2, 1887
Decoration Day was observed well in Edwardsville and vicinity.
Sunday morning, Bishop Bowman of St. Louis delivered an appropriate
address in the city park to the Edwardsville Post of the G.A.R., and
their friends. In the afternoon, Judge Irwin delivered an address at
Barnsback Cemetery, several miles from here. Bishop bowman also made
a few remarks. Yesterday, the G.A.R. post of Edwardsville, Company
F, the fire company, and citizens formed a procession on Main
Street, headed by the Enterprise Band, and marched to the Catholic
Cemetery, Lusk Cemetery, and then to Woodlawn Cemetery, at each of
which the members of the G.A.R. decorated the graves of those who
were in the army during the rebellion (Civil War). At Woodlawn
Cemetery, Mr. B. R. Burroughs delivered an address, which was
suitable to the day and occasion.
DECORATION DAY
Source: Alton Daily Telegraph, May 31, 1888
The observance of Decoration Day, under the auspices of the Grand
Army of the Republic, was one of the most imposing and successful of
any that have occurred here during the 22 years that the custom has
been observed. At 1:30 p.m., the members of the Post assembled at
their hall, corner of Fourth and State Streets, and marched, headed
by the Standard Band, to the city hall, under Captain S. S. Hobart,
Commander of the Post; H. M. Stamps, Officer of the Day. At the head
of the line, the fine G.A.R. banner was borne by comrade G. W. Long.
An American flag, furled and draped, carried by comrade William
Stomberg, was prominent in the ranks. The procession left city hall
at 2 o’clock on the march to the cemetery. At the corner of Second
[Broadway] and Henry Streets, the teachers and scholars of Garfield
School joined the line, and when Humboldt School was reached, the
teachers and children also fell in line. The sight was very
impressive. In advance were the veterans of 1861-5 [Civil War], with
shouldered muskets, emblematic of war, and bearing also bouquets of
flowers, fragrant memorials, for the graves of those who sleep,
while the rear of the procession was made up of little children, who
bore floral offerings alone. There was an immense assemblage at the
cemetery, the people by thousands had gathered there, actuated by
patriotic impulses.
The services at the City of the Dead opened with an impressive
prayer by Dr. A. T. Wolff, D.D., of the Presbyterian Church, who
invoked a blessing on the veterans, the cause they represent, and on
the solemn observance for which the day is noted. He also offered a
fervent petition for the General of the Army, over who is hovering
the shadow of the Angel of Death. Orders from National Headquarters
and an address, “The Duty of Today,” were read by Commander Hobart,
followed by music, “Nearer My God to Thee,” by the band.
Dr. A. A. Kendrick, President of Shurtleff College, the orator of
the day, made an interesting, profound, eloquent address. He paid a
high tribute to the Grand Army of the Republic, said that it was
their mission to inculcate sentiments and emotions of true
patriotism among the people. To be patriotic, we must first have a
country to love, and thanks to these veterans, we are now one as a
nation, not a league of sovereign States. This was decided by the
dread arbiter, war, from whose decree there is no appearl. We are a
nation where each individual State has its rights under the
constitution, but where the general government is supreme with power
to protect its citizens, throttle anarchy, and lawfully control the
trusts and combinations of unscrupulous men who would take advantage
of their wealth to oppress the people. The speaker expressed himself
as opposed to any restrictions on foreign immigration, for we get
the cream and not the “scum,” but said that all who came to this
country should become citizens, not only in name, but in reality,
relinquishing all customs, ideas, and purposes not in accordance
with those of a free, enlightened people.
The address was listened to with profound interest by the great
throng of people, and the sentiments spoken seemed to strike
responsive chords in many hearts.
Commander Hobart then read the address from the G.A.R. ritual:
“Today is the Festival of Our Dead.” The “Red, White and Blue”
followed. Owing to illness, Judge H. S. Baker, one of the speakers
announced, was not able to be present. Our national ode, “America,”
was rendered with full band accompaniment.
The veterans then fired three volleys as a solute over the graves of
their dead comrades, after which the mounds were decked with floral
offerings of which there were abundance. While this ceremony was
performed, the vocalists rendered, “Cover Them Over with Beautiful
Flowers,” followed by a selection by the band, “Spirit Hear my
Prayer.”
This completed the observance, which was a success in every feature,
greatly to the credit of the G.A.R., who managed the affair
throughout. The weather was almost perfect, the people attumed to
the spirit of the occasion, and everything seemed in accord with the
services. Business generally was suspended, and there was a liberal
display of patriotic emblems. The starry banner floated over the
city hall and Turner Hall, and was displayed at the hose houses and
other places. A large share of credit for the success of the musical
part of the programme is due Mr. William Ellis Smith, Chairman of
the G.A.R. music committee.
MEMORIAL SERMON
Source: Alton Telegraph, May 30, 1889
Alton Post No. 441, Grand Army of the Republic, attended divine
service Sunday morning at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, to listen to
the memorial sermon by Archdeacon Taylor, preliminary to the
observance of Decoration Day on Thursday. The Post assembled at
their headquarters prior to the service, and marched to the church
in a body under the Post commander, J. T. King, and occupied seats
reserved for them. The audience room was decorated with the national
colors and with floral devices, and presented an attractive
appearance. The Archdeacon took for his text a clause of the 30th
verse of the 12th chapter of 1st Chronicles: “Mighty men of valor,
famous throughout the house of their fathers.” From this theme, the
reverend gentleman delivered a most eloquent and patriotic
discourse, reviewing some of the great conflicts of modern times,
placing at the head of the list the terrible ordeal through which
this nation passed in the dark days from 1861 to 1865 [Civil War],
and paying a just and noble tribute to the valor, heroism, and
sacrifice of the volunteers whose deeds of glory saved the country
from disunion, and made possible the unity and material prosperity
which bless the great Republic of today. He spoke of the
uncertainties of great conflicts, and the fact that the result of
the Battle of Waterloo would have been different had the French
known of the existence of a certain sunken road which traversed the
field. He described his emotions on visiting that field last summer,
and deduced therefrom thoughts applicable to the great conflict
through which this nation lately passed. While denouncing the cause
for which he fought, the speaker paid a worthy compliment to the
heroism of the Confederate soldier, whose devotion, while mistaken,
furnished additional proof of the prowess of the American soldier.
He referred to the science of war as a magnificent game of strategy,
the study and practice of which had a fascination for the greatest
minds, simply as a gigantic intellectual contest independent of
other considerations, and drew attention to the fact that the
interest in the Battle of Waterloo centered in Napoleon and Marshal
Ney, Wellington and Blucher, just as in our great struggle history
now crystalizes around the achievement of Grant and Lee in the
science of warfare.
The discourse was vivid and inspiring, tenderly memorializing the
“last full measure of devotion” given to their country by the
fallen, and appreciatively eulogistic of the equal devotion of the
survivors.
DECORATION DAY
Source: Alton Telegraph, June 6, 1889
Another anniversary of the nation’s most solemn memorial has come
and gone. Like its predecessors, for many years, it was observed by
almost the whole population of Alton, and in the afternoon, business
was generally suspended. The day opened ark and towering, but before
noon the sun shone out and the weather was moderately favorable,
though a cold wind was blowing, making overcoats and wraps essential
to comfort. The procession formed at 2 o’clock at the city building,
under Grand Marshal Brueggemann. It was headed by the Upper Alton
Drum Corps. Next came the Uniformed Rank, Knights of Pythias, under
Captain E. G. Schweppe, who, in their handsome and showy uniforms,
made a splendid appearance, and attracted general admiration. They
were followed by Alton Post No. 441, Grand Army of the Republic,
Commander J. T. King, and many other old soldiers. Next came the
Sons of Veterans, under Captain E. E. Rutledge, followed by the
Maennerchor, Professor Gossrau. Then came the children of the Turner
School, in charge of their teacher, Professor Albert Ernst, the
girls in neat blue uniforms and all carrying bouquets of flowers.
Following these came hundreds of citizens on foot and in vehicles.
Altogether, the procession, with its flowers and flags, was an
imposing one. The old veterans, many of them feeble and maimed,
still marched with soldierly tread following the flag they offered
their lives to save and again kept step to the music of the Union.
Arrived at the cemetery, the procession moved to the eastern slope,
where many of the soldier dead lie buried, and where the exercises
of the day took place. Although the observance was a notable one,
and the great credit for its success is due to the efforts of
Commander King and Grand Marshal Brueggemann.
At Upper Alton, members of Alton Post 441, living in Upper Alton and
Middletown, and citizens, repaired to the Upper Alton Cemetery and
decorated the graves there under direction of Commander King. The
ritual of the Grand Army was rendered, and prayer offered by Rev.
Waggoner of the M. E. Church.
DECORATION DAY - EDWARDSVILLE & WANDA
Source: Alton Telegraph, June 5, 1890
From Edwardsville – Edwardsville observes Decoration Day every year.
Last Friday was no exception to the general rule. At ten o’clock,
the old veterans marched to the Catholic Cemetery and decorated the
graves there. At one o’clock, a procession was formed at the
courthouse square by Grand Marshal Pogue and aids. The following
were in line: police, mounted; National Band; Company F; Veterans;
flower girls; Sons of Veterans; Catholic Knights of Illinois;
Knights of Labor; Odd Fellows; Treuer Bund and Fire Department. The
graves of soldiers in the Lusk and Woodlawn Cemeteries were
decorated. The principal exercises took place at the latter
cemetery. Judge John G. Irwin was the orator of the day.
Decoration Day at Wanda is nearly always observed on the Sunday
after May 30. Sunday last, 300 persons from Edwardsville went down
on an excursion train to the Wanda Cemetery, and took part in the
exercises there. It is said that the crowd on that day was the
largest that ever assembled there to do honor to the fallen heroes.
A sad event occurred to remind the veterans that their comrades were
departing daily to be enrolled with the “silent majority.” Just
before the procession was formed, John D. Jones, a former resident
of Alton, was taken sick and died almost immediately. He was buried
yesterday afternoon.
DECORATION DAY IN ALTON
Source: Alton Telegraph, June 5, 1890
The air was redolent with flowers Friday, and filled with the sound
of fife and drum. In the morning the G.A.R. went to the Upper Alton
Cemetery, via the streetcars, and decorated the graves of their
comrades who are buried there. In the afternoon, stores and business
offices were for the most part closed, and thousands flocked to the
City Cemetery, where floral offerings were scattered in profusion,
and the monument recently erected to the memory of the Union dead
was dedicated. About two o’clock, Alton Post No. 441, G.A.R.,
preceded by the Upper Alton Martial Band, and followed by the Sons
of Veterans in force, marched from their headquarters to the City
Hall, where they were joined by the military company of Wyman
Institute students, who came from Upper Alton on the motor line. The
Wyman boys were given the post of honor in the parade, and filled
the place well. Marshaled by their drill master, Prof. Otto Assmann,
and led by Principal A. M. Jackson, they made a magnificent showing
and elicited much favorable comment along the line of march on
account of their excellent drill and bearing. Preceded, followed,
and flanked by a large body of people in carriages and on foot, the
procession moved on to Turner’s Hall, where its ranks were swelled
by a numerous company of school children, each of whom carried a
bouquet of flowers. A few blocks from the cemetery, the Upper Alton
public school children, led by Professor Powell, fell into line and
formed one of the prettiest features of the parade. The boys and
girls of this contingent carried wooden guns, were nattily
uniformed, and excellently drilled. AT the entrance to the cemetery,
the procession was met by a delegation from the Woman’s Relief
Corps, and when the soldier’s monument was reached, the march was
ended, arms were stacked, and the order “parade rest,” was given.
The dedicatory exercises were opened by Rev. A. T. Wolff, with an
invocation, Captain F. T. Lewis then delivered an address,
portraying in eloquent and touching terms the self-sacrificing
devotion of the men who saved the Union, and dedicating the monument
to the memory of the heroes who find a last resting place in our
City Cemetery. As the orator concluded the sentiment, “We will now
unvail this monument, erected in memory of our patriotic and heroic
dead, who are now and may be buried in this beautiful Alton
Cemetery, that future generations may know to appreciate the
sacrifices and valor of the noble volunteer soldier – our Nation’s
bulwark in this last, great Civil War – and over it shall be
unfurled the Star Spangled Banner, the flag under which they fought
and died,” the national colors with which the monument was draped
were removed by the Misses Jessie M. Lehr, Julia F. Johnson, Lillie
McKee, and Molly Long, and the flag was raised by the Misses Mamie
B. and Fannie M. Johnson. The cannon which surmounts the monument
was then wreathed with evergreens and flowers by the ladies of the
Relief Corps, while Miss Julia Johnson expressed the object of the
ceremony in the following words: “We now decorate this monument in
honor of the unknown dead, who were killed in battle or died during
the war, and who now fill graves marked, ‘Unknown.’ In honor of
those who fill watery graves in our rivers or in the depths of the
ocean, and those dead who are counted missing and no burial place
known. Their names are on the roster of the company or regiment to
which they belonged, or on the roster of the marine or gunboat or
vessel of war on which they served. They were heroes all, and
deserve the crown of everlasting life. May their souls rest in
peace.”
The monument consists of a plain, but massive granite pedestal,
surmounted by a large iron, copper-covered cannon, which faces the
east. The south side of the pedestal bears the inscription “The
Union Dead.” The year of its dedication, “1890,” is engraved on the
monument’s front and on the north side is carved the motto: “Dei
Gratia Vincit Amor Patriae” [which means “The love of country
conquers”]. The completion of the dedicatory address was followed by
the firing of cannon salutes, singing of patriotic songs by choir of
young ladies, and other memorial exercises, conducted according to
the Grand Army Ritual. At the conclusion of the program, flowers
were strewn over the graves of the soldier dead, which had already
been almost hidden from sight by a profusion of bright-colored
offerings, and after making this partial payment on their debt of
gratitude, the people dispersed to their homes.
IN MEMORIAM OF OUR SOLDIERS
Three Thousand Take Part in Ceremonies
Source: Alton Telegraph, June 4, 1891
With ever-increasing interest the people of this country delight to
pay deserved tribute to the memory of the patriots who in the hour
of their country’s dire peril, freely laid their lives upon the
altar of its safety, leaving business, home, kindred, and all they
held dear to crush an enemy who would trail her flag in the dust and
bring to naught the glories which adorn her page in history. And it
is proper that as year follows year in the ceaseless march of time,
and the ranks of survivors are lessened, constantly reminding us
that ere long, the last of that noble band will have crossed over,
we should instill into the minds of the young a veneration for their
memory, a respect for the principles for which they became a willing
and noble sacrifice.
There lie beneath the sod in Alton City Cemetery more than 800
soldiers of the Union, most of whose graves are marked by stones
furnished by the Government, and at the head of each was planted the
flag to whose defense their lives were dedicated.
A procession was formed in front of the G.A.R. hall on State Street,
by the members of Alton Post No. 441, headed by the Upper Alton
Martial Band, and marched by way of Second [Broadway], Ridge, and
Fifth Streets to the cemetery, to the strains of martial music. As
the procession passed Humboldt Schoolhouse, its numbers were largely
augmented by the primary pupils, who , dressed mostly in white and
carrying everyone a bouquet, brought up the rear, while numbers fell
into line as they entered the southwest gate and marched to the
place appointed for the ceremonies and address, the band playing the
dead march, the members of the G.A.R. with arms reversed. The
evolutions, as laid down in the program published, were executed and
the order was given to “break ranks.”
After perhaps half an hour, during which the flowers were laid upon
the graves and the people disposed themselves as comfortably as
possible in the deep shade on the north hillside, Commander Herb
introduced the orator of the day, the Rev. H. D. Stevens, who spoke
for about three quarters of an hour, delivering an able address.
After paying an eloquent tribute to the heroic dead in whose honor
these ceremonies are annually held and commenting upon the eminent
propriety of the universal observance of the occasion, the orator
addressed himself to his these, “The New Enemies of the Republic.”
The heads under which the subject was considered and treated at
length were: 1. Lust for office and political power. 2. The
plutocracy of wealth. 3. Intemperence. 4. Partisanship and
Sectionalism. The address was an able and entertaining one, and was
listened to with deep interest by the large audience. Concluding the
orator said:
“today the graves of both the Union and Confederate dead are being
decorated in cemeteries, where they lie side by side. They are the
graves of brothers who had a moral difference, who engaged in a
death struggle for what each thought to be his rights. That struggle
was ended 26 years ago, and finding their comrades and descendants
living together once more in a union with common interests and
hopes, why may we not place the wreath of forgetfulness and
forgiveness upon that brother’s grave?
Magnanimity is the virtue of the conqueror. Let us be great enough
to be generous, is not this our feeling today?
Under the sod and the dew,
Waiting the Judgment Day,
Love and tears for the Blue,
Tears and love for the Gray.
Over yonder lie the remains of a man in whose memory memorial
services were held a few days ago – Elijah P. Lovejoy. Him I regard
as the first soldier in our Civil War, one of the first to enlist
and the first to fall. He was on the advance picket line of that
great, irrepressible conflict. He clearly saw the ambushed enemy. He
scented the real danger, while it was yet afar off.
With malice toward none, with charity for all, with firmness in the
right as God gives us to see the right, let us seek, each one of us,
to make this God’s own country, dedicated to liberty, with free
schools, a free press, and a clean ballot, with a sober and
industrious people, proud to be called American citizens. And if
these dead, who lie about us, could speak, they would say, ‘And we
shall rest in peace.’”
After the oration, the squad of riflemen were drawn up near the
monument and fired a salute of three volleys over the graves in the
east end of the cemetery, after which a photograph of the members of
the Grand Army post was taken by Mr. J. E. Collins, then marching to
the graves in the northwest corner, the band, playing “Marching
Through Georgia,” a salute was fired and the procession marched
outside and disbanded.
The extreme heat of the afternoon did not prevent an attendance
equal to the largest ever seen on a like occasion in Alton. Many of
the business houses being closed, the businessmen largely attended,
and family carriages occupied every available hitching place for
several blocks in the vicinity of the gate.
DECORATION DAY - EDWARDSVILLE
Source: Alton Telegraph, June 4, 1891
Saturday dawned with as beautiful weather as Decoration Day was ever
honored. In the morning the business houses and residences were
tastefully decorated. In the afternoon, the G.A.R. Post and the Sons
of Veterans Camp met at their hall at 1:30, and headed by the
Enterprise Band, marched to the courthouse, where the exercises of
the day were to be held. The courtroom was crowded to its utmost
capacity, and an equal number were compelled to remain outside on
account of room. Rev. W. E. Ravenscroft of St. John’s M. E. Church
opened the exercises with prayer, which was followed by a few
remarks by Judge Cyrus L. Cook. The principal address was made by
Rev. J. H. Garrison of St. Louis, who delivered a very eloquent and
solemn oration. The program closed with the benediction being
pronounced by Rev. W. F. E. Ashe of the Baptist Church. After this,
a committee of the G.A.R. Post, accompanied by a firing squad of the
Sons of Veterans, visited each cemetery and decorated the graves of
the dead soldiers with flowers.
DECORATION DAY
Source: Alton Telegraph, June 7, 1894
The beautiful city cemetery was given up to the Memorial Day
exercises Wednesday, and an enormous attendance visited the burial
ground to strew flowers on the graves and pay their respects to the
silent heroes of the late war [Civil War]. The driveways of the
cemetery were filled with people. At 2:30, the G.A.R. veterans
arrived, followed by a large assemblage, swelling the attendance to
5,000 people. The Alton Post 441 G.A.R., and W.R.C. 151 met at
G.A.R. Hall, and formed in line, marching to the cemetery to the
beat of the drum. Each soldier’s grave was visited, decorated with a
flag and strewn with flowers. At the beautiful Soldiers’ Monument,
beneath the cannon’s muzzle and overlooking the rows of graves, the
exercises of the day commenced by song, the national hymn,
“America.” The Memorial Day service was conducted by G.A.R. Post
Commander, Robert Graham. The Soldiers’ Monument was decorated with
wreaths and flowers by the W.R.C., and was fairly hidden beneath the
evergreens. J. J. Brenholt was introduced as Mayor, and made a
brilliant address. At the conclusion of the Mayor’s address, Rev. F.
L. Thomson made an able address. At its close, the salutes were
fired over the graves and the exercises closed.
TROY CEMETERY ASSOCIATION HOLDS MEMORIAL SERVICES
Source: Weekly Call, May 23, 1895
The Troy Cemetery Association will hold memorial services Saturday,
June 1st, at 2 o'clock in the Presbyterian church. Gen. Benj. P.
Runkle of Ohio will deliver the principal address, with short
addresses by the pastors of the different churches. Music suitable
and familiar will be selected. A cordial invitation is extended to
all to come and join in with the association in making this our
first memorial exercises a success. The church will be open from 9
to 11 o'clock Saturday morning, June 1st. All friends are requested
to contribute flowers and send them to the church in the morning of
the above-named day. A committee will be at the church to receive
the flowers. After the exercises in the church, the friends will
march to the cemetery and engage in the beautiful and impressive
service of decorating the graves of the fallen brave. There are 25
or 30 graves of soldiers in the Troy Cemetery who fought in the
Black Hawk, Mexican and Civil Wars. These graves on Decoration Day
will be designated by a small American flag, and a paper containing
the name of the soldier and the war in which he fought.
DECORATION DAY
Source: Alton Telegraph, June 6, 1895
Another Decoration Day and the silent heroes of the Civil War are
honored by the veterans who assembled at the graves and fire the
salute. At 2 o’clock, the little band of survivors, Alton Post No.
441, assembled at city hall, and once more took up their march to
the cemetery. They were headed by the Alton City Band. Following was
a delegation of police, headed by Marshal Kuhn. At the cemetery, the
spot chosen for the ceremonies was at the soldiers monument, the
grim mounted cannon on the brow of the hill overlooking the rows of
headstones, significant remembrances to the old veterans assembled.
The rostrum was beneath the flag. The order of preliminary exercises
included:
Reading of order by Post Adjutant.
Reading of service, Commander B. Nathan.
Music, vocal – Ladies of the Relief Corps.
Welcome by Commander Nathan.
Music.
Rev. H. M. Chittenden of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church made the
opening address.
Mr. Herb made an eloquent conclusion to his speech. Following the
veterans, aligned at the command of Officer of the Day, A. P.
Herron, fired three rounds of musketry over the headstones on the
hillside. Appropriate music and the decorating of the graves
followed.
The cemetery was thronged with visitors, and the speakers held the
attention of a large audience.
MEMORIAL DAY
Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, Wednesday, May 31, 1899
Memorial Day was observed Tuesday with appropriate exercises at the
city cemetery and the decoration of graves of Union dead. The line
of march was from the City Hall on Second street to Ridge street,
Ridge street to Fifth, and Fifth street to the cemetery. A party of
the Naval Militia boys with their Hotchkiss gun and the Western
Military Academy cadets with field artillery were in line with the
old soldiers in the march to the burial ground of the soldier dead.
The principal address at the cemetery was by Rev. Catt, of
Jerseyville. Capt. D. R. Sparks also made an address and Mr. W. H.
Catts of Granbury, Texas, read an original poem appropriate to the
day and to the occasion of his return to visit Alton, his boyhood
home. The addresses were listened to by a very large number of
people. Rev. M. N. Powers offered opening prayer which was followed
by the regular G. A. R. services for the dead. Flowers were
scattered over the graves in the soldiers burying ground by
children, assisted by the members of Alton Post, G. A. R. Rev. H. M.
Chittenden pronounced the benediction. After the decorating of the
soldiers’ graves, the salute was fired over the graves by the Naval
Militia and the W. M. A. cadets.
MEMORIAL DAY - UPPER ALTON
Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, Wednesday, May 31, 1899
Memorial Day in Upper Alton was observed with appropriate services
at Oakwood Cemetery in the morning. The hour of exercises was set at
9:30 o'clock, and at the hour a large number had assembled at the
cemetery. A drizzling rain began falling and continued throughout
the exercises. The crowd did not seem to mind the wet, but stood
under umbrellas or gathered under trees for shelter. At 10 o'clock
the procession which had formed at the school house, entered the
grounds. Mr. Emory Dixon, Officer of the Day, of the G. A. R.,
accompanied by Rev. James Osborn, the speaker of the morning, led
the procession. Next came the Juvenile Band, followed by several
hundred school children carrying flowers and flags. The old soldiers
with their wives followed last. The school children were marshaled
in a hollow square, in the center of which stood the G. A. R. The
exercises were opened by the reading of the decoration prayer by
Post Chaplain William Reeder. The band played several selections,
and the school children, led by Supt. Lowry, sang America and other
national airs. Mrs. Demuth made a short talk, after which Mr.
William Loehr, Post Commander, introduced Rev. James Osborn, who
held his auditors in rapt attention. The decoration of graves
concluded the exercises. The procession marched back to town,
breaking ranks at the post office.
MEMORIAL DAY - TROY
Source: Troy Weekly Call, June 03, 1899
Saturday, May 27, having been selected by the Ladies’ Cemetery Mite
Society as Memorial Day for the decoration of the graves of the
soldiers who served in the several wars, and also those of
relatives, buried in Troy Cemetery, Mayor Rawson’s proclamation
requesting the business houses to close in the afternoon was almost
generally complied with, and there was a great outpouring of people.
At 2 o’clock p.m., a procession was formed at the public school
building, with James Black and Emil Droll as marshals, and headed by
Schultze Bro.’s cornet Band, marched through the principal streets
to the Presbyterian Church in the following order:
First Division – Members of the G.A.R. and old soldiers.
Second Division – Sons of Veterans.
Third Division – School children.
At the church, the program, as published in our last issue, was
successfully carried out. The address by Colonel John B. Hay of
Belleville was a masterly effort, and was listened to by the vast
audience with rapt attention. The special choir rendered several
selections of beautiful music suited to the occasion. After the
ceremonies at the church, the procession reformed and marched to the
cemetery, where the graves were profusely decorated with flags and
flowers.
A roster of soldiers buried in the Troy City Cemetery, as read by
Past Commander W. W. Jarvis, is as follows:
Samuel Seybold Sr., Black Hawk War, 1831-1832.
Caleb Ball Gonterman Sr., Black Hawk War, 1831-1832.
Michael Whiteside, Black Hawk War, 1831-1832.
William Mize, Indian War [2nd Seminole War], 1842. (have photo)
James A. Henderson, Mexican War, 1846-1848.
Edward Morriss, Mexican War, 1846-1848.
Kilburn Morely Snodgrass, Mexican & Civil Wars, 1846, 1861-1865.
Dr. John Stanley Dewey, Civil War, 1861-1865.
Dr. Major Francis Wayland Lytle, Civil War, 1861-1865.
James Lang, Civil War, 1861-1865.
Samuel Seybold Jr., Civil War, 1861-1865.
S. W. Helm, Civil War, 1861-1865.
James C. McLanahan, Civil War, 1861-1865.
George C. McLanahan, Civil War, 1861-1865.
Felix Droll Sr., Civil War, 1861-1865.
George Melchior Appel, Civil War, 1861-1865.
John A. Hollis, Civil War, 1861-1865.
Joseph H. Purviance, Civil War, 1861-1865.
Louis Heck, Civil War, 1861-1865.
Frank Heddergott, Civil War, 1861-1865.
William Mills Crowson, Civil War, 1861-1865.
James Herbert Kennedy, Civil War, 1861-1865.
Joseph L. Granger, Civil War, 1861-1865.
William Farmer, Civil War, 1861-1865.
Joseph Lloyd, Civil War, 1861-1865.
James Madison Anderson, Civil War, 1861-1865.
The following is a list of soldiers enrolled at Troy for the Civil
War of 1861-1865, who were killed in battle or died of wounds or
disease, and are sleeping under southern sunny skies:
Company I, 9th Illinois Infantry
Captain George Woodbury; Corporal Ferd A. Cornman; Judson Padon;
James Padon; Hugh McMahon; George E. Kinder; Joseph Stevenson;
George W. Moore; Jacob Schmidt; George McKinley; August Kluge; John
Holloway; and John McKinney.
Company F, 117th Illinois Infantry
Washington Ballard; Charles T. Stewart; Hezekiah Donaphan; John
O’Brian; John Frazier; Diederick Horstmann; and Samuel Baird.
Miscellaneous
Ben Watt, 140th Illinois Infantry.
Albert Mills, 140th Infantry (re-interred in Wood Cemetery [also
known as Canteen Creek Baptist Church Cemetery] in Jarvis Township).
Frank Greer, Battery B, Missouri Light Artillery.
Several young men from Troy were in both the army and navy during
the late Spanish-American War, but they all escaped without a
scratch. William Baglin, on the U.S.S. New York; and William Peters,
on the U.S.S. Oregon, were in the thickest of the Battle of
Santiago.
G.A.R. PARADE WITH ALTON'S GREAT WAR VETERANS
Source: Alton Evening Telegraph, May 17, 1922
Veterans of two wars, one fought to save the democracy, preserved in
the other, marched down East Broadway today as part of the annual
encampment of the Illinois Department of the Grand Army of the
Republic. Gray-haired and gray-bearded veterans of the Civil War
paraded with their younger comrades of the World War.
Gray, and some of them crippled, are these veterans of the War of
the Rebellion. Some of these with canes, some with an empty sleeve,
many of them limping, many with shoulders stooped by years; but they
marched with shoulders back and heads high, their eyes lighted again
by that fire of patriotic zeal which thrilled them when they went
forth to offer their lives that the Union might live. Their comrades
of a war more than 50 years later, who crossed thousands of miles of
ocean to turn back the enemy of civilization and democracy, marched
with them.
A great span of years was represented in that parade today. Ten
years ago, the Grand Army paraded here, but the soldiers were those
only of the Civil War. Today, a few years after the end of the Great
War [World War I], their companions were the men who fought in that
world conflict. Some of them rode in automobiles, but many of them
walked. The reply of one veteran to a question of a Telegraph
reporter this morning indicated the attitude of the G. A. R.
members. The reporter was at the door of the Temple Theater, where
the Grand Army was in session. At the door were two veterans, each
with rifle, guarding the door as is the custom of the G. A. R.
"Well, I guess you will all be in the parade this afternoon," the
reporter said. "How many do you expect to walk, and how many to ride
in automobiles?" One of the veterans, with a gray beard, threw back
his shoulders and proudly replied, "Well, here's one that will walk.
And most of them will walk, too, young fellow."
In the parade were members of the other visiting organizations,
members of the local white and colored posts of the American Legion,
and the local Legion auxiliaries, the Western Military Academy cadet
corps and band, the White Hussar Band, and the band donated by the
Heth Carnival. Commander Walter Horstman of the Alton Legion post
was the Grand Marshal.
Today was held the Father and Sons Banquet, one of the biggest
events of the convention. The luncheon was in two sections, one of
the Mineral Springs Hotel and the other at the Y. M. C. A., in the
gymnasium. At the Mineral Springs, Commander Phillips of the Sons of
Veterans was the speaker, and at the Y. M. C. A., past
Commander-in-Chief of the Sons of Veterans spoke. The Sons of
Veterans first went to the Temple Theater, where the G. A. R. met
and escorted the veterans from there to the hotel and the Y. M. C.
A. The G. A. R. was presented with $300 in gold by the Sons of
Veterans. The Father and Sons Banquet was held by the Sons of
Veterans for the G. A. R. It is at this event that the veterans
renew many old acquaintances, meet their sons, and talk of the
battles of long ago. All veterans are eligible to attend the
luncheon, in fact are urged to do so, whether accredited as
delegates or not.
The fortieth annual encampment of Sons of Veterans was opened
yesterday at the Illini Hotel. When Commander Phillips made the roll
call of officers, all but three were in attendance. The report of
the commander showed a total membership of 3,000 in Illinois. It
showed the greatest membership gain in the past year than in any
single year of the past ten. The Division Commander for Missouri was
present and made a short address. An address of welcome was given by
John D. McAdams of the Telegraph. At the open meeting, greetings
were exchanged between the Sons of Veterans, the Daughters of
Veterans, and the Sons of Veterans Auxiliary. Commander Phillips
presented Mrs. Mamie Coleman, head of the auxiliary, and Mrs. M.
Kathryn Compton, head of the Daughters of Veterans, each with a
standard of flags, Commander Wright of the G. A. R. and Mrs. Wright.
Commander Wright, in a short talk, congratulated the organizations
upon the co-operation they are showing in their work. Commander
Phillips presented to the G. A. R. Chief a pair of cufflinks and to
Mrs. Wright a token of the esteem with which she is held by the Sons
of Veterans.
The opening campfire of the G. A. R. encampment filled Temple
Theater with a crowd which gave the closest attention until the last
speech of the evening had been delivered by Henry R. Rathbone of
Chicago, Republican nominee for congressman at large, who had been
invited to speak on the subject of "The Last Days of the Life of
Abraham Lincoln." Proceeding the principal speech of the evening,
made by Mr. Rathbone, was a program of such interest that old men
and young old women and girls sat throughout. It was remarkable that
there was no disturbance from the going out of people who wearied of
the long program. In fact, no one seemed to have become tired at
all. The seats were all occupied and many were standing, unable to
get seats. The White Hussars band gave an opening concert, while the
audience was assembling. Campfires to those who do not understand
what they may be, are speechmaking events, when old soldiers sit
around and listen to talks by comrades, humorous, reminiscent, and
always full of fire.
Gilson Brown had been selected as chairman of the meeting, first
presented Mayor Crawford for the welcoming address, who after about
2 minutes on the floor, made way for Commander Wright of the G. A.
R. Commander Wright made a talk that was vigorous, fiery and
emphasized some lessons which other organizations might heed.
Opening his talk with a comment that many of the veterans were "dim
of sight, lame of hearing, but, O' what appetites I have seen," he
said that when men are in the neighborhood of 80 they might be
hesitating in their walk and movement, but that the old flag was a
dear to their hearts as ever it was.
The closing event was a speech on Abraham Lincoln by Henry R.
Rathbone, Chicago lawyer. Mr. Rathbone's father and mother were
guests in the box with President and Mrs. Lincoln when the shooting
of Mr. Lincoln by John Wilkes Booth occurred, and Rathbone's father
was wounded with a dagger on the arm in his efforts to capture the
assassin. Mr. Rathbone chose as the theme of his talk, the last day
of the life of Abraham Lincoln. With powers of oratory and beauty of
rhetoric, Mr. Rathbone painted a picture of the last day on earth of
the most beloved of the presidents of the United States. With
dramatic power he led up to the supreme moment of the day when as
Secretary Stanton said, "Now he belongs to the ages," as he ceased
to breathe. The story of the entry of the assassin, the firing of
the bullet, and his escape, coupled with the vengeful effect of the
American flag that caused Booth to break his leg, was told with a
power that held his audience and thrilled them.