Daniel Sampson - Union Soldier

Old cemeteries are fascinating – especially small country cemeteries. Such is the case for Hazel Knoll Cemetery in Jones County, Iowa. The bulk of this property is a hillside dotted with various stone monuments and traditional grave markers. There are several Civil War era soldiers buried here. However one grave stands out. Near the top of the hill and off to the side is a metal grave marker for soldier Daniel Sampson. His marker states that he was part of the Iowa 6th Cavalry,Company K. Internet research turned up that Daniel enlisted in the Army on Oct. 21, 1862. This regiment was mustered out at Sioux City. Nov. 17, 1865. He was listed as a wagoner.

Lest We Forget Our Boys of 1861-1865

Many older local cemeteries in northern states are populated with this statue or a variation. Civil War era veterans are often buried close to their local version of this monument. Several of these statues were placed in cemeteries and dedicated in the 1920s or earlier. 

This particular soldier monument rests on a granite base and decorated with four GAR markers and tiny US flags at its corners.

Snowy GAR Gravesite

Last week's snow almost buried the headstone of a veteran of the Civil War and Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) member in a small cemetery south of Lisbon, Iowa. The GAR, a fraternal and political organization dissolved after the last living Civil War vet passed, however GAR is supported today by other groups dedicated to preserving the gravesites of Civil War veterans. This particular grave is located close to the authentic Gettysburg Battlefield boulder which was officially secured and transported to Lisbon's cemetery in 1916.