Before Monday night’s Borough Council meeting began, Mayor Kilmartin read a proclamation declaring August 2, 2008 to be Colonel James Crowther Day in the Borough of Tyrone.
On hand to receive the Mayor’s proclamation was Colonel Crowther Foundation President Bob Hileman, Jr. and his wife Carol, Secretary/Treasurer of the foundation.
Members of The Keystone Regiment joined Mayor Kilmartin and President Hileman for the event.
President Hileman introduced Mike Gherrity and Jeff Friday to the Borough Council as the co-founders of the civil war reenactment and living history organization.
The Keystone Regiment will bring to life two military units that existed in Tyrone many years ago.
Their infantry unit reenacts Company A of the 110th Regiment of Pennsylvania Volunteers.
This group of men came together originally for the 90-day service in response to President Lincoln’s call for volunteers after the firing on Fort Sumter.
The Keystone Regiment’s artillery unit reenacts Battery B, Tyrone Artillery.
James Crowther was commissioned a First Lieutenant in the Tyrone Artillery before becoming Captain of the Tyrone Cavalry.
Borough Council was informed by President Hileman about a tribute to Colonel Crowther that will take place later this year. The National Park Service will place a panel concerning Colonel Crowther on their Wall of Honor at the Chancellorsville Visitor’s Center, Chancellorsville, Virginia. The panel will have the Colonel’s portrait and the following text:
Colonel James E. Crowther
110th Pennsylvania Infantry
Colonel James Crowther is the highest-ranking officer buried in Fredericksburg National Cemetery. A former Burgess of Tyrone, PA., Crowther died on May 3, 1863, while gallantly attempting to hold back the fierce Confederate onslaught at Chancellorsville. “His death is much regretted,” wrote his commanding officer. “He was a brave and fearless soldier, esteemed by all.”
President Hileman stated, “This is indeed a special honor for one of the founding fathers of the Tyrone community.”
He also stated that members of The Colonel Crowther Foundation’s Board of Directors will travel to Chancellorsville for the dedication and invited a representative or delegation for the Borough Council to join them.
