New York Monuments Commission facts for kids

The New York Monuments Commission for the Battlefields of Gettysburg, Chattanooga and Antietam was a special group created by New York State in 1886. Its main job was to honor soldiers who fought and died in three important battles of the American Civil War. These battles were the Battle of Gettysburg, the Battle of Chattanooga, and the Battle of Antietam. General Daniel Edgar Sickles was the first chairman of this commission. Later, Lewis R. Stegman took over as chairman in 1912.

What Was the Commission?

A commission is like a special committee or group of people. It is set up by a government to do a specific job. The New York Monuments Commission had a very important task. It was created to remember and honor the brave soldiers from New York. These soldiers had fought in some of the biggest battles of the Civil War.

Why Was It Formed?

The American Civil War was a very difficult time in U.S. history. Many soldiers lost their lives. After the war, people wanted to make sure these soldiers were not forgotten. They wanted to build monuments and markers. These would help future generations remember the sacrifices made. The New York Commission focused on soldiers from New York State.

Honoring Brave Soldiers

The commission worked on battlefields like Gettysburg, Chattanooga, and Antietam. These places saw some of the fiercest fighting. The commission helped to place monuments, statues, and markers. These memorials showed where New York troops fought. They also listed the names of those who died. This helped to tell the story of their bravery.

Who Led the Commission?

The commission had important leaders called chairmen. They guided the group's work. These leaders made sure the monuments were built. They also managed the funds for these projects.

General Daniel Sickles' Role

General Daniel Edgar Sickles was a well-known figure from the Civil War. He was the first chairman of the commission, starting in 1886. He led the group for many years. General Sickles left his role in 1912. This happened due to concerns about how the commission's money was being handled.

Colonel Lewis R. Stegman

After General Sickles left, Colonel Lewis R. Stegman became the new chairman. He took over in 1912. Colonel Stegman continued the important work of the commission. He helped ensure that New York's soldiers were properly honored.