Batavia girl traces her ancestry to Civil War veteran
On this day we remember all who have served our country, fighting for our freedom.
We speak of World War I and II and of the Vietnam War and the Gulf War. We pray for the safety of the brave men and women who are fighting now in Iraq or Afghanistan. The Civil War is hardly ever mentioned.
I admit that I have never thought of the War Between the States on this day - not until a 9-year-old girl reminded me of the sacrifices Batavians made during that war.
According to records in Batavia's Gustafson Research Center, the population of Batavia in 1860 was 1,621 people. The town sent 309 of its fathers and sons off to fight for the Union Army. The brave men from Batavia fought in every major battle. They ranged in rank from private to Colonel, and their bravery was singled out by President Lincoln.
Not all made it back alive. Of those who died, only a small number lost their lives in battle. Most perished from disease or malnutrition.
One man, Peter Victor, was captured on Oct. 16, 1863. The next morning, his body was found dead in a gully. It is thought that Victor wandered too far from his regiment and was murdered by rebel troops.
"He was my great, great, great grandfather," said Bianca Johnston. "My grandmother has a letter that was sent to the family when he died."
The letter was written by Lt. Col. Adin Mann, who organized Company B of the 124 regiment. He sent heart felt condolences to the family of Peter Victor.
Bianca chose to write about Peter Victor for her Batavia report and did research about the Civil War as well. In the Batavia report, third-graders learn about the history of the town and are encouraged to write about a famous Batavian.
To learn more about Batavians who fought in the Civil War, Bianca joined a small group of people who congregated at Batavia's West Cemetery to see re-enactors from the 8th Illinois Cavalry honor one of their own, Private David Gillett. Although it wasn't Peter Victor's exact regiment, the re-enactors gave Bianca Johnston a glimpse of what her ancestor would have looked like in uniform.
Hearing the gun shot salute and the sound of taps at the conclusion of the service, Bianca was transported back to the time when many left their families to fight for the preservation of the government.
The 8th regiment was distinguished for bravery and served as the honor guard at President Lincoln's funeral. "They were all very brave," said Bianca. "I'm glad they all served for our country." Bianca has a long list of family members who were veterans. Her great great grandfather, Peter Victor Thelander served in World War I and was one of the founders of American Legion Post 504 in 1920, serving as the post's first commander. Her grandfather Stan Johnston served in Germany in World War II. Bianca was proud to point out the name of Peter Victor on the Newton Memorial at the West side Cemetery. She is glad there is a memorial to honor the civil war veterans.
"It will be here a long time" she said. "People will see the list and think that they might know someone."
On this Veterans Day when we remember all those who have served or are serving our country, it's important to remember the sacrifices that have been made in all wars. The bravery of Batavia men and women who have fought for our freedom can never be forgotten.