BWAHS Puts Markers on Graves of
Soldiers of the American Revolution

Behind the tombstones of Polly and Benjamin Carpenter in Galena Cemetery are Beth Ann Williams, Polly Horn and Suzanne Allen

Of the 59 known soldiers of the American Revolution buried in the Big Walnut area cemeteries, 44 were missing the proper flag holder near their cemetery marker.  Members of the Big Walnut Area Historical Society under the chairmanship of Suzanne Allen, Bob Cheadle, Carol Wirick and Polly Horn inventoried the graves and ordered the flag holders through the Delaware County Veterans' Services.

Friday and Saturday Allen, Beth Ann Williams, Warren Owen and Polly Horn put holders and flags in  Blue Church, Fancher, Galena, Harlem, Red Bank, Stark and Sunbury Cemeteries so the graves would have the proper identification for Memorial Day on Monday. 

The Villages and Townships do an excellent job of maintaining the cemeteries and keep flags in the holders but apparently children tend to think is is humorous to move the holders.  Frequently a Civil War holder was at the grave of a soldier from the American Revolution.  A few were replaced because they were badly damaged. 

"We would like to see all veteran's graves marked," noted Polly Horn, president of the Big Walnut Area Historical Society.  Suzanne is already beginning her list of soldiers from the Civil War.  It will be very long.  Anyone wishing to help with the project should send their name and email address or phone number to mailto:info@bigwalnuthistory.org

When you see the flags, remember these men fought for the freedom you enjoy.

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