Saturday afternoon 300-plus citizens showed up on the lawn of the Logan County Courthouse to witness the dedication of the new Civil War soldier statue.

Since 1869 there has been a Civil War memorial on the courthouse lawn, honoring those who sacrificed all for the unity of our country and the freedom of all men.

In December of 2008 the statue succumbed to harsh winds and freezing temperatures, and crumbled. Soon after, the work began to re-erect the statue.

Those who served on the committee to rebuild the monument include Paul Gleason and JoAnne Marlin as co-chairs, with the late Cliff Sullivan as an honorary co-chair, Bill Donath, Joe Mintjal, Roger Matson, Eleanor Gunderman, Mary Ellen Martin, David Doolin, Chuck Conzo, Bruce Huskins, Shirley Bartelmay, John Sutton, and a host of special friends and helpers who offered financial support, donations of time and services, and much more.
 

In era-appropriate garb, this group depicting the Illinois 10th Calvary Regiment poses for a picture before performing their part in the day's activities.

Maureen Douglas, Mark Mathewson and Erich Schroeder perform Civil War-era music before the dedication.

The family of the late Cliff "Sonny" Sullivan were afforded special seating for the event.

Illinois state Sen. Larry Bomke chats with local historian Paul Beaver before the ceremony begins.

Committee member Bruce Huskins visits with Alderwoman Joni Tibbs.

A crowd gathers on the north side of the courthouse.

Paul Gleason, committee co-chair and local historian, offers a welcome to those in attendance.

The Rev. Mark Kaley of the First United Methodist Church offers the invocation.

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