Historic marker to honor Revolutionary War soldier

CAHOKIA, Ill. — A historic marker will be dedicated in southwest Illinois on July 4 to honor a French-Canadian soldier who sided with America during the Revolutionary War.

The marker will be placed at the site of Capt. Jean Baptiste Hamelin’s home in Cahokia. Hamelin died in 1780 while fighting for the American cause in a battle in northern Indiana.

Funding for the historic marker came from a Daughters of the American Revolution grant, with sponsorship by the local chapter. Other support came from Save Illinois History, the Hamelin family of Kansas City and the Illinois State Historic Society.

The dedication will take place across the street from the Jarrot Mansion State Historic Site and the historic Holy Family Church. A reception at the parish hall will follow the ceremony.