Still on watch, this Union soldier looks toward the bay. Huron County GAR Memorial, Caseville, MI
1861-1865
1910
Erected by the patriotic citizens of Huron County, under the auspices of Nancy Smalley Circle, No. 7 L of G.A.R."
The area known as the 'Thumb' of Michigan was heavily forested in the years prior to the Civil War and most of the residents here made their living from the lumber industry or maritime interests around Lake Huron. The little village of Caseville probably hasn't changed much in size during the last 150 years. Lumber is no longer the industiral giant it once was, and the maritime activity centers more upon leisure boating than anything else.
The area around the monument, at the busiest corner of the small downtown, is very well kept and is obviously a place where locals meet to spend a moment or two in conversation. While taking these photos I was approached by an elderly gentlemen who was eager to explain he was born here in Caseville the same year the statue was placed. I gathered that nature of populace hasn't changed much in the last 100 years. Indeed, this old fella was more than 90 years old and felt very comfortable talking with a stranger. Imagine how that kind of attitude must have made young men pine for their homes as they served, and fought, in distant fields so many years ago.
A much less noticeable plaque honors other veterans
Small plaque honors all veterans
Nearby, stuffed into a non-descript wall, was a very small plaque with this inscription;
Dedicated Memorial Day, 1976
