New York Historical Society

The first steps towards securing a Soldiers' monument located in the Prospect Hill Cemetery in Sidney, New York began on May 16, 1903. In September of 1903 two 1,476 lb. howitzers left Fort Morgan, Mobile Bay, Alabama for their final journey north. The total freight for delivery was $35, much being paid for by the citizens of New York. These guns while in the Confederate Army did active service against the Union fleet under Admiral Farragut, during the bombardment of Mobile, when the Admiral was lashed to the shrouds of the flagship "Hartford". This fact will add historic lustre to their possession as they stand guard over the remains of Northern soldiers they were employed, at one time, to destroy. The howitzers were received in December of 1903 and stored until the spring of 1904 until they could be placed in the Soldiers Lot.

Communication from Congressman Smith of Kingston, NY to Commander C.E. Garlick, of Bradford Post, G.A.R., No. 177

House of Representatives, Washington September 9, 1903

Mr. Charles E. Garlick, Bradford Post, No. 177, Sidney, NY.

Dear Sir,
I am just in receipt of a letter from the Ordnance Department stating that the commanding officer of Fort Morgan, Mobile, Alabama, has been requested to turn over to you two twenty-four pound howitzers from that fort. He has also been requested to communicate with you relative to the route of shipment, payment of transportation charges, etc. I enclose you herewith suggestions relative to mounting cannon on granite block or other substance, and a blueprint showing same mounted. These guns are not considered safe for firing. Hoping that you will receive the guns at an early date.

Very Truly Yours, Geo. J. Smith

(November 2008) Sign on Northern part of Prospect Hill Cemetery, welcoming people to the "Old Section" of the cemetery

(November 2008) Enlarge Much controversy surrounds the two missing howitzers. In 2005 a private businessman from Pennsylvania began buying up many Civil War Cannons in and around central New York. The two howitzers, which had stood in the Prospect Hill Cemetery, for over 100 years were sold for $35,000 for the inclusion in a military museum in Pennsylvania. Much uproar was felt throughout Sidney, especially those involved with the historical society. The howitzers will probably never be returned to the cemetery

Period photo of Fort Morgan after surrender in 1864

Modern aerial view of Fort Morgan, Mobile Bay, Alabama

Modern photo of 24 pound howitzers, similar to the ones originally placed at Prospect Hill Cemetery