October 27, 2008
Heritage groups to pay homage to Confederate monument
Courthouse memorial honors local Civil War veterans
By Hamilton Richardson
Progress staff writer
Many people who pass by the large stone monument on their way to the Autauga County courthouse every day may not even notice it, even though it’s been there for 100 years.
The monument to Confederate soldiers, however, will be the center of attention Sunday as the Sons of Confederate Veterans sponsor a special commemoration ceremony.
As well as the Sons of Confederate Veterans, the Prattville Dragoons and the Autauga County Heritage Association will also sponsor and play an integral part in the ceremony. The event will take place at 3 p.m. at the Autauga County courthouse and afterwards, at the Heritage Museum for a reception.
"The Confederate Memorial is an integral part of our history," said Robin McChesney-Hughes, Autauga County Heritage Association director. "It’s a part of the War Between the States. It’s a memorial to Confederate veterans."
According to McChesney-Hughes, there is a time capsule built into the monument that includes a copy of the Prattville Progress, pictures of Daniel Pratt, several Confederate bills and other historical items.
"In 400-500 years from now, they’ll be able to see that people were proud of their heritage," she said.
McChesney-Hughes believes that many in the community are interested in the memorial and will attend because of its connection to Prattville.
"There are still families here that founded the town. Men from those families were involved in the war," she said.
According to Prattville Dragoons communications officer Tyrone Crowley, the Confederate monument is one of hundreds that were erected around the South, and it was originally built in a slightly different location.
"The monument was moved 18 feet in 1961 to preserve the balance between it and the new annex to the courthouse," said Crowley. "Apparently, no such consideration was given it when the most recent addition was added, hence its closeness to the current courthouse entrance."
The memorial ceremony will include comments about the history of the courthouse monument, which will be given by Crowley. Also, there will be a color salute led by Captain Andy Redd from the 33rd Alabama Reenactors.
On The Web: http://www.prattvilleprogress.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081025/PROGRESS01/810250310/1041