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THE FIRST DEDICATION OF DARLINGTON'S
CIVIL WAR "SOLDIER'S MONUMENT"

Milestones Vol 12 No 2--Summer 1987

The Darlington celebration of September 1, 1887 centered on the memorial to those "fallen heroes of Company K, 10th Pennsylvania Reserves and D, 100 th Pennsylvania Volunteers." Taking only one year to raise the needed funds, the good people of Darlington were able to install the statue the very same year (1887). The lone soldier standing erect on his pedestal, holding his rifle and carrying his regulation knapsack is made of white bronze. The base on which he stands is also of white bronze and bears inscriptions of various scenes of battle.

Among the guest speakers for the event were Governor James A. Beaver, Col. Daniel Ashworth who gave the dedication oration, Col. E.A. Montouth, Rev. L. McQuire, Cap. A.P. Burchfield. Music was provided by the New Galilee and Enon Cornet bands and the G.A.R. Drum and Bugle Corp. After the speeches, the ladies presented a silk regulation flag to the G.A.R. Post. Dinner and supper were provided at the McCowan Hall for the cost of $.25 with proceeds benefitting the monument fund. Highlights included the availability of trains to and from Darlington via the Pittsburgh, Marion and Chicago Railroad and Colonel Chill W. Hazzard delivered his famous Speech "GUN CAMPS" that evening at the R.P. Church. Admission price was again $.25.

The following gentlemen compose(d) the committee of arrangements and (saw) to it personally the comfort and pleasure of all, Hon. I.F. Mansfield, A.J. Welsh, S. Henry Thomas, S. Cook, and W.H. Anderson.

The Little Beaver Historical Society is celebrating their 25th Anniversary with the Rededication of Darlington's 100 year old Civil War monument and the Grand Opening of Greersburg Academy. Festivities will take place on Saturday, September 19, 1987 at 11:00 a.m .... At that time an Honor Guard from Post 8106 and the 5th West Virginia United States Infantry will lead the rededication services. The ribbon cutting ceremony will take place at 12:30 p.m. and the Academy will be open to the public until 5:00 p.m.. Exhibitions include: The Lacock Room, The School Room, The Church Room, Student Bedroom, Sitting Room, Greersburg Room and Meeting Room. Music and concessions also available.