Honoring heroes: Scout Daniel Zedan leads Civil War headstone restoration in St. Charles
On Saturday, May 3, the legacy of 22 Civil War veterans was brought into clearer view thanks to the leadership of Life Scout Daniel Zedan and a dedicated team of volunteers.
As part of his Eagle Scout service project, Zedan organized the lifting, straightening, and cleaning of weatherworn and sunken headstones at the St. Charles North Cemetery, ensuring that these markers of American history can be properly seen and honored by future generations.
Zedan, a member of Troop 23 — chartered by First Presbyterian Church in Wheaton and part of the Three Fires Council based in St. Charles — is currently finishing his junior year at Hampshire High School.
He led a team of more than 20 scouts, parents, and community volunteers. With careful work and respect for the sacred ground, the group spent hours restoring the dignity of each veteran’s grave.
“This project really helped me understand how much history is buried right in our communities,” Zedan said. “It felt meaningful to give back to the men who gave so much, and to help preserve their memory.”
The effort received valuable support from the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War, particularly the Philip H. Sheridan Camp #2. Their specialized equipment and preservation knowledge were instrumental in the success of the project. Gratitude is also extended to St. Charles Township North Cemetery Superintendent Brooks Ronzheimer for his support and cooperation in making this project possible.
Matt Clark, Eagle Coordinator for the Illinois Department of the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War, praised Zedan’s leadership and the broader significance of the work: “Daniel’s project is more than just a service requirement — it’s an act of remembrance. By restoring these headstones, he and his team are giving a voice back to forgotten heroes.”
The restored headstones now stand upright, clean, and respectfully maintained — a silent yet powerful tribute to those who fought to preserve the Union.
As Memorial Day approaches, visitors to St. Charles North Cemetery will walk past these newly revitalized stones with renewed reverence. Thanks to the dedication of one Scout and his community, the stories of these veterans will continue to be told.