From the 'Turnback Tuesday' archives: Soldiers Monument on Derby Green

This week's "Turnback Tuesday" features the Civil War Soldiers Monument on the Derby Green. 

In 1875, the Kellogg Post of the Grand Army of the Republic began a movement to erect a monument to the men of Derby and Shelton who gave their lives as volunteers during the war. 

Inscribed on the brass plaque are the names of 83 men, and the poem was composed by Theodore O'Hara, an Irish Kentuckian. 

The substructure was completed in 1878 and in 1883, the 7 foot tall bronze statue of a Union Soldier standing at rest was added. 

The memorial was dedicated on July 4, 1883 amid great fanfare, a parade, and approximately 8,000 people in attendance. The surrounding cannons were donated later.

Thanks goes to the Derby Public Library staff for sharing interesting local history each week.