Monument to honor William Pittenger

The article from the Herald-Star details the dedication of a monument to honor William Pittenger, a Civil War soldier from Jefferson County, Ohio, who participated in the famous Great Locomotive Chase of 1862. The dedication ceremony was scheduled for Saturday at Knoxville Park.

Pittenger, born in New Somerset, enlisted in the 2nd Ohio Volunteer Infantry in 1861. He later re-enlisted and took part in the Andrews Raid, an attempt by Union soldiers to disrupt Confederate supply lines by seizing and destroying a train. The raid failed, and Pittenger, along with others, was captured and imprisoned for nearly a year.

While in prison, Pittenger began writing his memoirs, which were later published as "Daring and Suffering: A History of the Great Railroad Adventure." After the war, he became a minister and served in various states until his death in 1904.

The dedication ceremony included a eulogy by Rick Pittenger and a presentation by Greg Pittenger. The monument was funded by Kurt and Virginia Glenn, with support from Knox Township workers. The event organizers advised attendees to bring lawn chairs for the ceremony.