The Soldiers and Sailors monument on the grounds of the Historic Courthouse in Stillwater will be cleaned, restored and a new patina applied later this spring.

A rededication of the monument is scheduled on Wednesday, July 4. The ceremony will be a recreation of the original dedication on April 27, 1917.

The 50-member 34th Infantry Division Band will play for the observance and special programs and exhibits by Civil War re-enactors also will be part of the celebration.

In conjunction with the conservation of the monument and the July ceremony, a special exhibit will be installed at the Historic Courthouse featuring the Civil War. It will run from May through September and is free of charge.

The Washington County Historical Society has agreed to provide Civil War items from its collection including uniforms, flags, weapons, and other period artifacts.

The public is also invited to submit artifacts, papers, photographs, and stories of the Civil War for potential display in the exhibit.

Where feasible, staff will make copies of letters and other documents for use in the exhibit. Individuals with items for the display are asked to contact Carolyn Phelps at 651-275-7077 to schedule a time to bring in the items.

April 13 is the deadline for exhibit items.

Some $32,000 has been raised through grants and donations towards the $36,000 conservation project. An additional $4000 is needed for the work on the monument and additional funding is still sought for the future maintenance of the monument and to fund the rededication ceremony.

To make a contribution, contact Phelps at the Washington County Historic Courthouse, 101 W. Pine St., Stillwater, MN 55082.

Checks should be made to “Washington County” with a note specifying that it is for the Civil War Monument.

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