Bethel honors 14 Civil War heroes with a granite monument at the top of a hill in Center Cemetery.
The monument, dedicated in 1892, was carved from a 14-foot block of solid granite and features distinctive carvings. A dedication on the front (north) face reads, “In memory of the soldiers and sailors of Bethel who gave their lives in defence of the Union 1861-1865.”
The dedication’s carving resembles a scroll suspended from a rod that hangs from just below the feet of an eagle near the top of the monument’s face. A ribbon unfurled next to the eagle reads “Union,” and “Liberty.”
The monument’s base features an intricately carved trophy featuring two rifles and crossed swords along with a soldier’s equipment belt, hat, rucksack and bedroll.
The monument’s south face lists the names and regimental affiliations of 14 residents who were killed in the war.
The sides of the monument are mostly rough rock face, other than two granite cannonball pyramids.
Source: Connecticut Historical Society: Civil War Monuments of Connecticut
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