Mooretown Monument

Mooretown Monument Ohio Historical Marker Dedication Ceremony - May 25, 2015

A Community United in Remembrance and Honor

On a sunny day, May 25, 2015, the Mooretown community gathered to honor the past and dedicate a new Ohio Historical Marker at the Mooretown Monument. This event marked a significant moment for the residents of the Yellow Creek Valley as they came together to celebrate their shared history and the memory of those who served and sacrificed during the Civil War.

11:00 AM - Welcome and Blessing

The dedication ceremony began at 11:00 AM with a warm welcome and blessing by Pastor Don Upton. The gathering was further enriched by a heartfelt rendition of "How Great Thou Art" by Frankie Russell, setting a solemn yet uplifting tone for the day's events. Attendees were then invited to enjoy a lunch accompanied by music from the local band, Awesome Possum.

12:00 PM - Program

At noon, the formal program commenced with an invocation by Pastor Upton, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. The Amsterdam VFW Post 232 Honor Guard presented the colors, leading into a stirring performance of the National Anthem and "God Bless America" by Frankie Russell.

Historical Review and Recognition

Virginia Glenn took the stage to provide introductions and a historical review of the significance of the Mooretown Monument and its connection to the local community. Her presentation was followed by the Bully Boys, a group known for their period brass music, adding an authentic Civil War-era atmosphere to the event.

Special recognition was given to Andy Verhoff of the Ohio History Connection, who has been instrumental in preserving and promoting Ohio’s rich history. The keynote address, titled "The Battle of Perryville," was delivered by Jeff Evans, a former Gettysburg Ranger and Civil War expert, who provided an in-depth look at the pivotal battle and its impact on the soldiers from Yellow Creek.

Honoring the Fallen and Community Dedication

As the event coincided with the closing of the Civil War's 150th anniversary, the organizers took this opportunity to reflect on the community’s dedication to preserving the memory of those who fought in the war. They expressed their ongoing commitment to maintaining the Mooretown Monument, the Mooretown Cemetery, and assisting with the Holt Cemetery as needed.

The day was dedicated to the memory of several local historians and community members who had recently passed away, including

• Ruth Casey, a generous contributor to historical knowledge.
• Louis Christian, a historian of remarkable expertise.
• Jim McConnell, a devoted caretaker of Yellow Creek’s history.
• Frank Wade, a reliable helping hand in the community.
• Dan Swartz, who graciously opened his land for educational tours of Tunnel Mill.
• Linda McLain, a passionate protector of Yellow Creek and the Yellow Creek Coalition Treasurer.

Their contributions and dedication were deeply appreciated, and they were all dearly missed.

Soldiers of Yellow Creek

The ceremony also paid tribute to the Soldiers of Yellow Creek, many of whom enlisted in the 2nd Ohio Volunteer Infantry under Captain David Mitchell at Mitchell's Salts Works. The community remembered Thomas George, who served under Captain Mitchell and was tragically killed at the Battle of Perryville, Kentucky, on October 8, 1862. The Civil War’s impact was felt deeply in the Yellow Creek Valley, as it was in countless communities across the nation.

Closing Hymn

The ceremony concluded with a moving rendition of the Closing Hymn, bringing together the voices of the community in a moment of unity and reflection. This dedication ceremony was not just a remembrance of the past but a reaffirmation of the community’s commitment to preserving the legacy of those who came before them.

The Mooretown Monument now stands as a testament to the resilience and dedication of a community that honors its history and the memory of those who served and sacrificed for future generations.