We deem it not amiss to say a word or two concerning the monument that is to be erected at this place in memory of the Confederate dead of Hardeman. A little over one year ago a society composed of a number of highly esteemed ladies, was organized for the purpose of paying this more than merited respect to the sleeping heroes of Hardeman. In order to more fully carry out the object of the society, the offices of secretary and treasurer were filled by two of our most responsible and reliable citizens. From subscriptions and benefits the society has been enabled to collect a sum amounting to near two thousand dollars, which sum is in the hands of the proper officer of the society.
Several designs for the monument have been presented and examined, but as yet, no design has been adopted, as the cost of the work ranged from $3,500 upward. A marble shaft of sufficient dimensions could not be bought for less than $3,500, and as times are hard and money scarce, with but little prospect for the society to increase its funds, we respectfully suggest that in lieu of marble, the society adopt blue limestone for the monument, which will be just as durable and equally if not more imposing. A monument built of limestone could be procured for a great deal less than one of marble; and, possibly, the funds that the society could command would cover its entire cost. If the memento is to be placed in the Court House yard (the proper place), it seems to us that the next spring would be the proper time for its erection.
We would like to see the monument occupying mid-way ground between the front gate and door that lead to the halls of justice, surrounded by a neat iron fence, and having engraved on its four sides the name of every one who enlisted from this county and fell in defense of what he felt to be his rights. None but such conscience bereft abortions as BUTLER, SHERIDAN, and the late unlamented GRIFFIN object to a grief-stricken people erecting fadeless testimonials to the memory of their deceased kindred and friends, and as we have no such blur-eyed defamers among us, it is presumed that the monument will be placed where it ought, in the Court House yard.
The Bolivar bulletin. (Bolivar, Hardeman County, Tenn.), 26 Oct. 1867, Page 3. Chronicling America: Historic American Newspapers. Lib. of Congress.
