Unearthing History: Hastings Celebrates the Heroic Spirit of Minnesota's Civil War Soldiers
As autumn leaves grace the grounds of Oakwood Cemetery, a poignant moment awaits the residents of Hastings. On November 19th, a thread of history will be pulled from the fabric of the past to present day as we honor the valor of Minnesota troops during the Civil War at the 160th anniversary commemoration of President Lincoln's Gettysburg Address.
The event, orchestrated by local history enthusiast Tim Figge, isn't just a remembrance. It's a living history lesson set against the solemn backdrop of Oakwood Cemetery, a place that holds the stories of our town's ancestors—stories of bravery and sacrifice.
Tim Figge passionately shares the saga of Colonel Colvill and his men—sons of Hastings, Red Wing, and surrounding areas—who stood firm at Gettysburg, holding the line for a critical quarter of an hour. This act of courage by the First Minnesota regiment is credited by historians as a turning point for the Union Army, preventing Confederate forces from potentially seizing Washington.
The selection of Oakwood Cemetery as the event's venue carries profound symbolism. Among those resting there is a local soldier with living descendants in the Cottage Grove and Ravenna Township areas. In a journey that mirrored the emotional aftermath of many battles, his father traversed the distance from Minnesota to Gettysburg to bring his son home to rest—right behind what is now our local high school.
As we gather from 2 to 3 p.m. at the historical juncture of Featherstone Road and General Sieben Drive, we're not just recalling a battle; we're connecting with the legacy of our community. It's a legacy etched in the bravery of the soldiers who fought valiantly for the ideals we hold dear.
This event isn't merely about looking back; it's about understanding the impact of our shared heritage. It's about recognizing the fibers of courage, resilience, and community woven into the story of Hastings and its heroes.
Join your neighbors, bring your families, and take a moment to walk through the hallowed grounds of Oakwood Cemetery. Together, we'll pay tribute to the gallant souls who shaped our nation's destiny at a crucial moment in history.
As the words of Lincoln's Gettysburg Address echo through the trees, let us renew our commitment to a government "of the people, by the people, for the people," and let us remember the valor of those who ensured that such a government would not perish from the earth.
We invite all of Hastings to come and be part of this moving homage—let us honor our past and inspire our future.
Audio by KDWA:
Image: Midjourney edited by LocalPigeon.com