EDITOR’S NOTE: This is part of a weekly series on our region’s history coordinated by the Trumbull County Historical Society.

Nestled within the town park of Bristol stands a solemn sentinel of local history and national sacrifice: the Bristol Civil War Monument.

This graceful marble structure, dedicated to the memory of 14 young men from Bristol Township who perished in the conflict between 1862 and 1863, holds a unique distinction. It is recognized as the oldest Civil War monument in the state of Ohio and the second oldest in the entire United States. It is a silent testament to a community’s profound grief and patriotism during a nation’s most trying time.

The story of the monument begins with the outbreak of the war itself. Like countless towns across the Union, Bristol saw its sons answer the call to preserve the nation. A significant number of these volunteers served with the 7th Ohio Volunteer Infantry, a regiment that would see extensive action in the brutal campaigns of the Eastern Theatre.

Others joined the ranks of the Ohio 105th, as well as the 2nd and 14th Ohio Volunteer Infantries, facing the horrors of war on iconic battlefields such as Perryville, Cedar Mountain and the grounds of Shiloh. The sacrifice of these men deeply moved the townspeople. Determined to create a lasting tribute, the community raised $50 — a considerable sum for the era — to commission a memorial.

The design was entrusted to a local artist, Frank J. Hammond, and the monument was manufactured in Cleveland. Its base is inscribed with the poignant phrase, “Defenders of the Union,” clearly stating the cause for which these men fought and died. It was formally “erected and dedicated to the memory of our honored dead from Bristol, Ohio.”

Tragically, even as the monument was being created, the war’s relentless toll continued. By the time of its completion, five more Bristol men had lost their lives between 1863 and 1864, a somber reminder that the conflict’s cost was still being tallied even as the community sought to honor its first losses.

The dedication ceremony, held in the town park, was a poignant and meticulously planned event. A procession was led by marshals and a brass band set a solemn tone. Central to the event were 34 women, each dressed in white and adorned with pink scarves and crowns of myrtle. They represented the 34 states of the Union at the time — a living symbol of the nation these local boys had died to protect.

The ceremony’s climax was profoundly moving. Two young ladies stepped forward to remove the flag that had veiled the monument, revealing it to the public for the first time. As a brass band played a mournful dirge, a tableau was presented.

The figure of the Goddess of Liberty was exhibited, embodying the ideal for which they fought. Beside her, 14 young boys stood with heads bowed respectfully next to stacked arms, a powerful representation of the 14 fallen soldiers whose weapons would be shouldered no more.

Today, more than 162 years later, the monument still stands, but the passage of time has taken its toll. The marble exhibits signs of wear, with cracks and holes that require repair, and the plaques need reattachment to prevent further damage. Recognizing its immense historical value, the Bristol Township Historical Society, in partnership with the Trumbull County Historical Society, has launched a campaign to raise $12,000 for the comprehensive restoration of the site.

This effort will ensure that this cherished landmark can endure for generations to come. The funds will not only preserve the physical structure but also ensure its long-term sustainability. Additionally, they also will support a rededication ceremony, planned in conjunction with America’s 250th anniversary celebrations, allowing a new generation to honor the legacy of Bristol’s “honored dead.”