The Tioga County Civil War Memorial dedicated to “Her Heroes Who Fought And Her Martyrs Who Fell That The Union Might Live” will mark its 128th Anniversary, Independence Day, at noon on Thursday, July 4, with a special brief ceremony on the south lawn of the Courthouse facing the Court Street Bridge.
The 143-year-old Kirby Band of Nichols will play selections. The 137th New York State Voluntary Infantry Regiment Riflemen will fire a musket salute. Daughters of Union Veterans and Beaula Patterson Brown Daughters of the American Revolution will wear era attire.
On July 4, 1891, the monument was accepted on behalf of the citizens by the President of the Day, General Benjamin F. Tracy, Secretary of the Navy, who delivered an oration; and General Isaac S. Catlin also spoke. Jim Raftis will read excerpts.
The public is invited. More participants are welcomed. Especially community members with Civil War material involving Tioga County soldiers. Bring a reproduction of that informational material for handout. Your value added ideas are encouraged.
For more information, contact Glenn A. Warner Post 1371, Veterans of Foreign Wars Memorial Chairman Jim Raftis by calling 687-4229 or by email to jraftis2@stny.rr.com.
Looking forward to it. Just one correction, the Civil War Reenactor Unit is the 137TH NEW YORK, not the 138th as listed. You will note the original 137th New York was mustered into service in 1862 consisting of Companies from Tioga, Broome, and Thompkins Counties. The 137th saw a lot of action including the Battle of Gettysburg where they were instrumental in stopping the Rebel advance on Culp’s Hill which saved the right flank of the Union Army.
We changed the Unit online. I will notify the individual that forwarded the information. Thank you for letting us know.