I found this in an 1897 Galesburg paper while looking for something else and
thought someone else could use it. Sorry, I didn't write down exact date,
but was late May or early June.
"Persons interested in the Russell Cemetery, with some of their
friends, gathered at the cemetery for the purpose of holding memorial services
and electing trustees. The meeting was called to order at 2 o'clock by
Edmund Russell.
First in order was a song, "The Fallen Brave", sung by a double
quartet, led by Miss Jennie Miles, Miss Georgia Wesner presiding at the
organ. Prayer was offered by Rev. A. P. Rolen, of Gilson.
Song, "They Died Not In Vain".
David Russell was called forward to tell something of the history of the
selection of this spot by his grandmother, Patience Russell, more than 56
years ago. Mrs. Russell was the first one to be buried in the new cemetery.
Her husband quarried a rock and lettered a tombstone, which now stands over
her grave.
The next speaker was Rev. H. P. Kline, of Gilson, who made a brief address,
and was followed by Rev. A. P. Rolen, who spoke a few moments.
"America" was then rendered by the quartet, and James Rebstock, of
Gilson, read the names of the soldiers buried here and directed the work of a
dozen little girls, who decorated with beautiful flowers the graves of the
fallen heroes.
At the business meeting which followed, E. Russell was elected
trustee. A few remarks were then made by Mr. Russell.
Over three hundred persons were in attendance. The music was excellent,
and the speeches were all good."
