BRISTOL — The Bristol Township Historical Society, in partnership with the Trumbull County Historical Society, has launched a public fundraising campaign to restore the community’s Civil War monument.

Society members said the goal is $12,000, and the effort aims to preserve the 162-year-old monument, which holds the distinction of being the oldest of its kind in Ohio and the second-oldest dedicated Civil War monument in the United States.

The monument is located at the township center at state Routes 45 and 88.

Erected in 1863, during the height of the war, the monument stands as a poignant and early tribute to the Civil War soldiers from Bristolville.

Society members said the funds raised will be used to clean the memorial, repair cracks in its facade and securely remount its historic plaques.

The restoration project will culminate in a community rededication ceremony, timed to coincide with the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary celebrations (America250), honoring both the monument’s legacy and the nation’s history.

Mary Ann Raidel of the Bristol Historical Society said there has been discussion by township trustees to have a time capsule buried for the township to mark America250 in 2026.

She said Bristol is planning various 250th anniversary events.

Raidel said she has spoken to trustees about asking community members for suggestions on what to include in the time capsule and the timing for when the capsule will be opened.

Raidel said there also has been discussion of adding a second Civil War marker with additional names of local people who served.

She said the Trumbull County Historical Society is assisting in applying for grants to help cover costs for restoration and for the second marker. Community members and history enthusiasts are encouraged to contribute to the preservation project.

Donations can be sent by mail to Bristol Township Historical Society, 7100 Thompson Clark Road NW, Bristolville, OH 44402, or online at bit.ly/3KBiUgt.