TAZEWELL COUNTY (25News Now) – The Tazewell County Genealogical and Historical Society held a dedication ceremony unveiling five stone gravesite markers for Revolutionary War veterans buried across the county.
Part of the community’s effort to recognize America’s 250th anniversary, the ceremony at Antioch Cemetery in rural Dillon recognized Revolutionary War veteran David Shipman, whose gravesite was unmarked.
The society said the five veterans honored had links to major moments of the Revolution, including the Battle of Cowpens, service at Fort Ticonderoga, and service under General George Washington, including events around the Siege of Yorktown.
Three of those veterans were believed to be buried in unmarked graves.
“They all served in the American Revolution,” said Susan Rynerson, board member of the Tazewell County Genealogical and Historical Society. “A lot of Tazewell was settled by first sons and first daughters and in a few instances, they brought their elderly parents with them. So, we are beyond honored to have that little piece of history here in Tazewell County.”
The event included information on all five honored veterans, recognition of living descendants and a veterans honor guard presence.
Roger Broyhill, a relative to James Broyhill, who fought three battles in the Revolutionary War, attended the ceremony.
“Well, I think its recognition from his past service that was probably long overdue,” Broyhill said. “Having the monument up for him to recognize where he was in this area is nice.”
The new stone monuments are located at Deacon Cemetery, Dillon Cemetery, Tennessee Point Cemetery in Tremont, Antioch Cemetery in Dillon and Woodrow Cemetery in South Pekin.
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