Chapter 3: New Heights (1895-1899)
Col. Friedrich K. Hecker Camp #443
Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War
Department of Illinois
Belleville, Illinois
By Jon Stacy, Camp Historian
Chapter 3: New Heights (1895-1899)
With some turbulent times behind them, the Hecker Post set off about their business, while looking for the future. Sometime in January 1895, the years officers were installed, but for the most part the first two months were quiet, however Commander Crouch was a businessman and a loyal comrade of the Post, something was indeed up.
The Relief Corps started the year off with a bang with entertainment that was presented at the Tiemann Opera House, of local talent, in a thrilling and entertaining military drama of the Civil War called “After Taps”, for Washington‘s Birthday on 22 February, 1895. Mr. George K. Thomas provided advice, council and practical experience, in the cleverly written little play. The gross receipts were $300.15, with a net gain of $196.50. (As it should be noted, the cast of characters listed four former members of the Mersy Camp – George Rodgers, Malcolm McConanghy, George Stanley & Edward Abend).
The quietness on the part of the Post, was due in part to a “grand celebration” that the Post was planning, and the first evidence of this came in early March 1895; when the Post rented the St. Clair County Fairgrounds for the Fourth of July. By mid-March, Hecker Post had sent out invitations to every County Post and to Posts within the neighboring counties. The Bavarian Band was hired and a committee was formed that included: Fred Sunkel, William Crouch, Peter Romeiser, Charles Fleischbein and John Heinzelman.
In other doings, several Belleville residents when to the Blue & Grey Reunion that was held on the Shiloh Battlefield on April 2 & 3. Those residents were Joseph Fuess, Robert Rutherford, Conrad Hatzenbuehler, Emil Adam, John Heinzelmann and L.G. Bornman. (As this was not a GAR event, several of the men listed were not comrades of the Order.)
On April 19, 1895; members of the Hecker Post traveled with the Hecker Corps and their cast members of the production “After Taps”; for a production of the show, which was sponsored by the Nashville Post #419, in Nashville, Illinois. The Hecker Quartette performed a variety of song in between the acts of the play. The play was well received, along with the accompaniment of the Quartette. Shortly afterwards, several members of the Hecker Post (John Heinzelmann, Henry Rhein and W.G. Hill) attended the 34th Reunion of the 1st Missouri Light Artillery Regiment, at Nagel’s Place on the corner of St. Charles & 6th Street, in downtown St. Louis, MO.
The Post sent a delegation to Bloomington, Illinois; for the 29th Encampment of the Department of Illinois, of the Grand Army of the Republic. The Post’s delegation included Commander Crouch, Oliver H. Clark, William H. Powell & L.A. Vogel. They traveled with the Hecker Corps delegation which included: Mrs. Emma Powell, Mrs. Elise Kueffner, Mrs. R. Wangelin, & Mrs. Carrie Thomas-Alexander. During the encampment General Powell was persuaded to run for Department Commander, and he defeated his opponent General John McNulta of Chicago, with a vote of 453. General Powell had the support from the entire southern & central parts of the State. During the encampment, the Department passed a resolution that condemned the Confederate veterans from dedicating a monument to the Confederate dead at Oakwoods Cemetery, in Chicago on Memorial Day.
Illinois Department Commander W.H. Powell, with DC medal on his coat.
From: “History of Illinois & St. Clair County, Illinois” 1907
Memorial Day Ceremonies were much larger than in years past, as the Divine Services were held at the First Methodist Evangelical (M.E.) Church on May 26th, 1895. However, their was an important reunion also held that day, at the residence of Captain Casimir Andel in Belleville, for the “Osterhaus Brigade”, which was comprised of members from the 3rd, 12th & 17th Missouri Infantry Regiments. A letter was read from General P.J. Osterhaus, who had since returned to Mannheim, Germany, and DC Powell spoke to the gathered.
For the Memorial Day Parade & Ceremony; the Hecker Post pulled out all the stops as Company D, 4th Illinois National Guard, the Bavarian Band, UVL Encampment #99, the Belleville High School Cadets, the Liederkrantz Society & the Hecker Corps; were all in attendance. At the ceremony, which was held at Walnut Hill; Comrade Charles T. Phillips was the orator for the day, and the Bavarian Band provided traditional German patriotic music, for this one occasion. No word was released on who the one grave belonged too. Prior to the days activities, decoration committees traveled far and wide to pay their respects, as they decorated graves at Green Mount Cemetery, Rentchler’s Cemetery, Engelmann’s Farm, and Col. Hecker’s grave in Summerfield. Meanwhile, DC Powell had a busy day as he spoke at Rose Hill Cemetery in Chicago, in the morning and spoke to Post 374 in Waukegan, in the afternoon.
The Hecker Post Fourth of July Celebration was a grand success, as the parade featured Captain Joseph Fuess, as the Grand Marshal, as well as Company D, 4th Illinois National Guard, the High School cadets, the Belleville Athletic Club, the Belleville Militair Verein, Belleville Turners, Belleville Bicycle Club, visiting Grand Army Posts, the Union Veterans Legion and others. Mayor Frederick Sunkel welcomed all on behalf of the city of Belleville and the Hecker Post. DC Powell spoke briefly, on behalf of the Illinois Department, and he was followed by the Honorable J. Nick Perrin who read the Declaration of Independence. The guest speaker for the day was the Honorable (Congressman) William A. Rodenberg. The city and it’s residence went all out on patriotic decorations, as banners and flags adorned Main Street and many homes; as the city presented itself in a “gala-day appearance”. The Bavarian Band provided patriotic music and the Post spared no expense as they served first class refreshments to the gathered.
Shortly afterwards, it was announced that DC Powell had visited 41 GAR Posts in the Chicago/Cook County area, to which he was gifted with a regulation silk flag from the WRC and a silk banner from the Ladies of the Grand Army. DC Powell stated that both of the items would be proudly displayed by the Illinois delegation in Louisville, Kentucky; during the National Encampment in September.
The ladies set out to make their own mark when they sent a petition (during the week ending on August 9th, 1895) to the City Council requesting four lots at Walnut Hill for the burials of old soldiers who dies as mendicants, and to rebury thirteen soldiers at the County Farm with soldiers honors. The petition was referred to the Cemetery Committee in connection with Mayor Sunkel.
Upon personal invitation by Commander (Colonel) Issac Clemens, some of the members of the Hecker Post traveled to Carbondale, Illinois; for the 13th Annual Illinois Soldiers and Sailors Reunion, which was held between August 14-16, 1895. Several regimental reunions were held to include 9th, 18th, 31st, 48th, 49th, 60th, 80th, 81st & 110th Infantries, along with the 5th, 13th, & 15th Illinois Cavalries and the 4th Missouri Cavalry. DC Powell was in attendance and officiated a campfire held in honor of the 25,000 plus attendees. During this time, Comrades John Heinzelman and Bernhard Hund traveled to Louisville, to establish quarters for the Post during the National Encampment, and they would encamp at Louis Kaemmer’s place.
The Post would support the Corps, when they hosted the Inter-State Association of Mexican War Veterans, in Belleville. Comrades E.A. Woelk, O.H. Clark and the Quartette were singled out, as well as the UVL Encampment. DC Powell and Mayor Sunkel gave a brief talk to the gathered veterans, on August 19th, 1895.
The Post traveled to Louisville along with Mrs. Carrie Thomas-Alexander who was elected as the official WRC delegate from Illinois, as the National Encampment was held between 11-14 September, 1895. Unfortunately, Comrade P.M. Romeiser sustained an injury and was confined to a hospital, until he was able to return home in late October. On 30 October, 1895; DC Powell paid a visit to the veterans living in the Illinois Soldiers & Sailors Home in Quincy, Illinois; and hosted a Camp Fire in their honor.
Mrs. Thomas-Alexander, held a convention of the 18th & 21st Districts of the Illinois WRC, in Belleville, at the Thomas House; on 2 November, 1895. There were Corps delegates coming to Belleville from Bond, Fayette, Shelby, Moutrie, Monroe, Randolph, Perry, Marion, Washington and Clinton Counties.
The busy year of 1895 wrapped up with DC Powell’s appointment of Joseph Fuess and John Heinzelman as the GAR Congressional District’s post inspectors. John Heinzelman himself inspected the Hecker Post, and found it in good order; prior to his election as the 1896 Post Commander.
On December 28, 1895; the 1896 Officers were elected with Emma Powell retaining her position as Corps President, but there were other personnel moves with the Senior and Junior Vice Presidents. This meeting was the first that the Relief Corps received word that they were awarded the four Walnut Hill Plots. The following was admitted into the minutes of the Belleville City Council on 6 January, 1896.
“To His Honor, the Mayor and City Council of the City of Belleville, Illinois:
Gentlemen: An agreeable New Year’s surprise was in store for the Hecker Women’s Relief Corps, No. 207, at it’s last meeting, December 28th, 1895, occasioned by the generous donation of four (4) lots in Walnut Hill Cemetery for the burial of the fallen heroes now interred at the County Farm and such others as the exigency of the case may require.
A rising vote of thanks was rendered and is hereby conveyed to His Honor the Mayor, the worthy City Council and the obliging City Clerk, by said Corps, which feels honored by this tangible appreciation of its efforts in behalf of the defenders of the Union.
Gratefully submitted in F, C and L.
Hecker W.R.C. No. 207
By Emma P. Powell, President
Johanna T. Lorey, Secretary”
With another busy year on tap, 1896 started out with a Double Installation of the Hecker Post and Corps; at Post Headquarters in the Buchanan Building, on 17 January, 1896. Commander Crouch was not on hand, due to an illness, so Past Commander and Mayor Fred Sunkel led the Post through the meeting, until Crouch was officially relieved by John Heinzelmann. Both the Post and Corps were installed by DC Powell, and it was noted that his gavel was comprised of gold, silver, steel, bronze, rubies, diamonds & etc., as it was a gift from the Illinois Department of the Women’s Relief Corps to the Illinois Department of the Grand Army.
The Corps moved their February fundraising entertainment from Washington’s Birthday to Lincoln’s Birthday, to allow the UVL Encampment to hold their fundraising event on that night. The proceeds from the Lincoln’s Birthday went to re-intern sixteen soldiers that were currently buried at County Farm and at Potter’s Field, in Walnut Hill. The entertainment included music and song (which included the Hecker Quartette). Children did a short program called “Salute to the Flag” and a short comical play entitled “Betty’s Papa”. The night was followed by dancing. The Corps debuted their newsletter at the function, which they called the “Hecker WRC Journal”.
The Washington’s Birthday entertainment, hosted by Encampment #99 of the UVL; was filled with speeches, historical accounts, music, along with tableaux’s. The Music was provided by the Bavarian Orchestra.
Commander Heinzelman decided to hold the February 28, 1896 meeting as a Camp Fire, as several petitions were presented. In March, the Post got an early jump on their Memorial Day plans as a committee was formed. In April, DC Powell accompanied two trustees of the Illinois Soldiers Orphans Home, in Normal, IL; to Xenia, Ohio; to investigate the manual training school, with intent of it’s adoption.
The Illinois Department Encampment was held in Cairo, Illinois between 12-14 May, 1896; the Belleville delegation (Post: Commander Heinzelmann, Bernard Hund, Oliver H. Clark, & Charles Becker. Corps: President Emma Powell, Perle Smith, Sarah Henkemeyer and Carrie Thomas-Alexander) had plans to move the 1897 Department Encampment to Belleville, but lost out to Galesburg. While in Cairo, many excursions were taken to the Belmont Battlefield and Bird’s Point, in Missouri; and to Columbus and Fort Holt, Kentucky; as well as the National Cemetery in Mound City, Illinois. DC Powell reported that the Department had 26,929 comrades in good standing with 572 Posts. During the year of 1895, the Department lost 533 comrades by death. General Powell was succeeded by General W.G. Cochran of Sullivan, Illinois; as the Illinois Department Commander. Mrs. Thomas-Alexander was elected the Department Junior Vice President for the year 1896-97.
For Memorial Day, the Divine Services were held at the St. Paul’s Church for the Post & Corps. The Quartette performed during the services, which was held on May 24th, 1896. The Parade and Ceremony took place on May 30th, with the High School cadets, the Bavarian Band, and the UVL Encampment. The Post arranged for the Corps to ride street cars to Walnut Hill, instead of walking in the parade. It was planned to have Company D, of the 4th Illinois National Guard participate, but after a tornado devastated East St. Louis; they were placed on active duty to help clean up the mess. The Post made due, as the hollow square was formed around the entire WRC Memorial Plot for the first time. The Honorable John B. Hay, was the guest speaker for the ceremony. Veteran volunteers (Comrade Kesselring was placed in command of Comrades Henry Burkhard, John Brunner, Charles Brunner, George Gauss, Henry Schweickhardt and William Osmann) preformed the rifle salute, as Comrade Henry Hettenhausen played taps afterwards. The recently interred graves in the plot (that were moved to the cemetery from the County Farm), the Post made mention that they would buy stones for the veterans buried at Walnut Hill, but the Corps announced that they’ve already purchased 150 stones, all suitably marked. They were shipped from the Vermont quarries in early July and would be placed as soon as they arrived.
A monument was also dedicated on Memorial Day, to the fallen members of the 9th Illinois Infantry during the Battle of Shiloh. The monument was suggested and inaugurated by the late General William C. Kueffner. On one side it simply reads: “Ninth Illinois Infantry Volunteers USA”. On the other side it reads: “April 6, 1862/ Present for duty 578/ Killed and died of wounds 103; wounded 263/ Total Killed and wounded 366”.
Picture: Craig Swain 3-16-2009
The Historical Marker Database (www.hmdb.org)
For the remainder of the year, things were quiet with the Hecker Post; they were invited and attended the 35th Anniversary celebration of the Battle of Wilson’s Creek, which was being hosted by the Frank Blair Post #1; in St. Louis, Missouri; on 9 August, 1896; at Concordia Park. The Post was also invited and attended the Madison County Soldiers & Sailors Association reunion, which was held between 25-26 September, 1896, in Alton, Illinois.
It was reported that Comrade Michael Hartnagel, in his official capacity as Post Quartermaster of Hecker Post, filed suit St. Clair County Court against Comrade Fred Sunkel (who at this time was the current Mayor of Belleville), during the week that ended on August 21st, 1896. The suit alleges that Comrade Sunkel borrowed $250.00 from the Post Treasury in 1894, and had yet to repay the Post. It can be presumed that Comrade Sunkel immediately repaid the stated loan, as this case never reached court.
By the end of 1896, the Post had 137 comrades in good standing, with another 51 listed on the Roll of Honor. The Post held their last meeting of 1896 on December 30th, as Emil Adam was elected to command the Hecker Post, as John Heinzelmann stepped down once again. The Relief Corps elected Mary Evans as President, since Sophia Wangelin stepped down.
1897 started off on a sour note as Comrade Charles W. Hilgard passed and was laid to rest. Being the brother-in-law to Comrade Romeiser, his pallbearers were Casimir Andel, Richard Wangelin, Joseph Fuess, Charles Horttmann, Fred Sunkel and Jacob Spies. The remainder of the Post was in attendance to officiate the GAR “Ritual of the Dead”.
In mid February, the National Grand Army of the Republic released the following statistic: 26,693 G.A.R. comrades passed away during the year of 1896. The article went on to state: “Vets are dying at a rate of 100 per day… Time is carrying off the old veterans of the war faster in the ‘90’s, than rebel bullets did in the ‘60’s… The Grand Army is becoming a relic, a most honorable relic.” The Grand Army also stated that the number of surviving soldiers is between 850,000 to 900,000.
For Washington’s Birthday, the Relief Corps gave a presentation entitled “Lady Minstrels”, as all sixty-five women participated. A night of music, song with some jokes and speeches. One member was so bad the Belleville Weekly Advocate had to single her out. However, the newspaper did remark that Mrs. Thomas-Alexander did a wonderful job of being the Master of Ceremonies and that she looked wonderful in her blue satin dress. The entertainment was presented at the Opera House.
In March, Company D, 4th Illinois National Guard held a gala to commemorate their third anniversary of being organized at their armory on Main and Spring. The Hecker Quartette was a featured attraction. On April 2, 1897; the Hecker Corps held a Camp Fire in the honor of the Hecker Post, at their Headquarters in the Buchanan Building. The gathered were welcomed by Corps President Mary Evans, and featured song by the Hecker Quartette. General Powell and Captain Wangelin both addressed the gathered.
For the Illinois Department of the Grand Army Encampment in Galesburg, the Belleville delegation included for the Post: Commander Adam, Oliver H. Clark, William Schlott, and Charles Horttmann. Corps delegates were President Evans, Mary Heinzelmann, Emma Lorey and Carrie Thomas-Alexander. The Encampment was held between 4-6 May 1897.
Memorial Day Divine Services were held at the German M.E. Church, on May 23rd, with the Reverend Schlagenhauf scheduled to preside over the service, but due to illness the services were conducted by Reverend G.W. Shepard. Mr. George B. Busick was the guest speaker. The highlight of the services was the organ prelude that was splendidly done by Miss Lulu Hartnagel.
The Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony, grew again in 1897; as the Bavarian Band, Company D, 4th Illinois National Guard, the UVL, Hecker Corps, the young ladies of the Belleville High School, the choir from the German M.E. Church, and the High School Cadets; all took part in the Memorial Day events planned by the Hecker Post. The speaker for the day was the Honorable Alonzo S. Wilderman. New to the ceremony was the WRC Ceremony was the “WRC Service for the Unknown Dead”, held afterwards, which was described as “a beautiful cenotaph service to commemorate the memory of comrades who did not return, but lie in southern cemeteries and fields in unknown graves.” One grave at the WRC Plot, represented all the graves, as thousands came out to participate in the ceremonies.
Missing from the Belleville service was the Hecker Quartette, which received a special invitation by the Stanwick Post #212 in Chester. The Quartette traveled to Chester with Mr. William Heinzelman Jr., as their pianist. They first performed on May 29th, at the Chester Penitentiary, and then gave a private performance to twenty-six ex-soldiers confined to the prison, since they were the best behaved in the institution, they were allowed to smoke Belleville’s finest cigars. It was reported that the old soldiers were deeply moved and touched by hearing the old Army songs once more. The next day (Memorial Day) they sang on the steps of the Randolph County courthouse. The concert was attended by a large number of veterans and the general public.
For the Fourth of July, the Post declined an invitation to attend the Mascoutah Post’s Fourth of July celebration, but did accept an invitation to attend a patriotic service at the M.E. Church, given by the Pastor J.G. Klene. However, the Post decided to let the individual comrade decide which event (if any) he wished to attend.
On July 16th, the City of Belleville placed a bid to host the years Annual Southern Illinois Soldiers & Sailors Reunion. A committee had be previously established to include Comrade John Heinzelman, the Honorable J. Nick Perrin and Belleville Mayor Edward F. Winkler. They met with the Reunion committee in Centralia, and nearly had the reunion. They lost the reunion on account of Belleville Mayor Winkler’s stubbornness in upholding a new City ordinance that prohibited the sale of alcohol at the County Fairgrounds. As a result, the Reunion was held at Du Quoin. It is unknown if the Hecker Post traveled to Du Quoin to participate in the reunion as a Post.
On 6 August, 1897; Comrade John Heinzelman attended a reunion of Company K, 1st Missouri Infantry; as he was shot through the right arm during the Battle of Wilson’s Creek. Later that month, several members of the Post traveled to Buffalo, New York; for the 35th National Encampment of the Grand Army of the Republic, which was held between 23-28 August, 1897.
The remaining half of the year was quiet, as the Post elected their 1898 Officers on 22 December, and Emil Adam retained the position of Post Commander. The Relief Corps elected their 1898 Officers and Carrie Thomas-Alexander was elected Corps President, relieving Mary Evans.
Mrs. Carrie Thomas-Alexander
Published in the: Belleville Weekly Advocate 27 May, 1898
1898 started out quietly, not much going on, with the exception of Past Post Commander Crouch moving to St. James, Missouri; where he would take up fruit farming, leaving his photography business to his son. In mid-April, the Post began to put together their Memorial Day event.
The Corps furnished their Washington’s Birthday as “the most unique & novel entertainment ever given in Belleville”. Entitled the “The Garden of Singing Flowers”, it was a musical extravaganza with twelve characters, singing solos, duets, quartettes and in choruses. The entertainment was well received as it was held at the Liederkranz Hall.
With a War with Spain on the imminent horizon, Captain Casimir Andel, was promoted to Colonel of the 4th Illinois Infantry (as the Regiment was renamed), during the week ending on May 13, 1898. During that week, the Illinois Department of the Grand Army & Relief Corps held their annual Encampment in Streator, between 11-12 May. The Post delegates were: Commander Adam, Charles Becker, Joseph Dietz and Conrad Kesselring. Hecker Corps President Thomas-Alexander was elected Department President of Illinois.
On May 22nd, 1898; the Post underwent a one day inspecting tour of the Illinois Soldiers & Sailors Home in Quincy, Illinois.
President Thomas-Alexander led the State and the City of Belleville, in full gear towards supporting the War effort, by finding everyway possible to meet the many needs of the soldiers. For the Hecker Corps, President Thomas-Alexander personally looked after Company D, of the 4th Illinois Infantry Regiment. The Hecker Relief Corps provided over 1,200 “dainty” box lunches for each member of the Regiment, when their train stopped in Belleville, en-route to Tampa, Florida; in late May 1898.
Memorial Day Divine Services were held on May 29th at the Presbyterian Church. The Parade and Ceremony at Walnut Hill were not as grand as years past, due the absence of the National Guardsmen. However, the Honorable J. Nick Perrin was the guest speaker for the day, as the Ceremony was once again held at the WRC Plot. After the GAR ceremony, the Corps commenced their “Service for the Unknown Dead”. The one grave and who it belonged to was not mentioned.
In late June, the Hecker Post voted to give Company D, 4th Illinois Regiment, the sum of $25 to Private Richard W. Ropiequet, to be expended in supplying the needs of the company. They later held a euchre benefit tournament, for Company D, on 30 June, 1898; and turned over $80.35 in donations for the needs of the company.
Honorable Discharge Paperwork for Comrade Henry Damm
From the Collection of Robert Mohrman
In early August, the Illinois Department of the Women’s Relief Corps released the statement that as a State, the Illinois Department has expended $1,076.55 for the needs of Illinois Soldiers, besides furnishing a lot of camp stores, pajamas & etc. The Hecker Corps itself has contributed $150, of the total sum. “The Illinois WRC has performed noble work in caring for our Soldier boys now at the front.”
Corps Department President Thomas-Alexander attended and spoke at the Northern Illinois Soldiers and Sailors Reunion in Cornell, Illinois; on 18 August, 1898.
General Powell & Louis A. Vogel were the only comrades of the Hecker Post to travel to the 32nd National Encampment of the Grand Army of the Republic, held between 3-6 September, 1898. They traveled with four ladies of the Hecker Corps delegation, which included Department President Carrie Thomas-Alexander. They traveled at the invitation of the Hassendeubel Post #13 (of St. Louis, MO) onboard a chartered train to Cincinnati.
The Post traveled to Centralia to participate in the 16th Annual Southern Illinois Soldiers and Sailors Reunion, that was held between 14-16 September, 1898. Corps President traveled to Centralia, Illinois; and addressed the gathered there. The Corps took charge of the remains of Spanish-American War Veteran George Archibald Jr., who passed away on 3 October, 1898 (at home), and was laid to rest in the Memorial Plot at Walnut Hill Cemetery. The Corps was inspected by Department Inspector Mrs. Ida E. Palmer of Chicago, and was more than pleased with the condition of the Hecker Corps, on October 25, 1898.
Several Post comrades later traveled to Edwardsville between 13-14 October, to the 9th Illinois Veterans Reunion. The Hecker Post also attended in large number the “Grand Army Night at the St. Louis Exposition” which was held in the coliseum, that was held on 27 October, 1898. They were entertained by John P. Sousa’s Marine Corps Band, and the “Ransom Howlers” a Quartette from the Ransom Post #131, in St. Louis. The entertainment also contained several addresses by notable distinguished visitors.
The year ended nearly as quietly as it began. The Relief Corps retained President Thomas-Alexander for another term, at their meeting on 17 December; as they turned their attention to the erection of a monument to the memory of the soldiers of the “late Spanish War” and the War of Rebellion. The 1899 Post Officers were elected on 29 December, 1898; as Captain Joseph Fuess took command of the Post for a third term, as Commander Adam stepped aside.
The Post’s activities were muted, due to their complete support of the “Boys” of Company D, 4th Illinois Infantry that were fighting in Cuba, during the Spanish-American War; and to their friend & comrade Casimir Andel, who was in command. The Post was shocked to hear that Colonel Andel was arrested on September 16th. Colonel Andel denied all charges that were leveled against him by subordinate officers, who held a grudge against him & he demanded a Court Martial. The Court Marshal was held (on 7 October) and he was found guilty of one count, to which led many to believe that their was a conspiracy afoot. Within a week after reading the findings of the Court Martial, President William McKinley (a personal friend to General William Powell) overturned the court martial and personally reinstated Colonel Andel to his command of the 4th Illinois Infantry, on 14 October, 1898.
With 1899 beginning; the Hecker Corps ensured that the year got off on the right foot as they put together a camp fire, which also served as the Installation Ceremony for both the Post and the Corps. The Camp fire was held on 17 January, 1899, at Buchanan Hall; and had an admission price of .25 cents, as the proceeds went directly to the soldiers monument. The Illinois Department Commander John C. Black installed the Hecker Post and later spoke. Mrs. Flo Jamison Miller the National President of the WRC installed the Hecker Corps and then spoke. The Hecker Post was in full attendance, as the Quartette preformed. Guests included comrades from the Ransom Post #131 in St. Louis and the McDowell Corps from East St. Louis.
1898-1899 Illinois Department Commander, Brevet Brigadier General John C. Black
Picture: Wikipedia
The Hecker Post was called to duty after the passing of Lt. Colonel Hugo Westermann on 28 February, 1899. The burial was held on 2 March, 1899; under the auspices of the Hecker Post and UVL Encampment #99. His pallbearers were Casimir Andel, Emil Adam, Charles Horttmann, Fred Sunkel, Ernest Hilgard and Henry Niermann; three representatives from each organization.
In Mid-March the Post joined the Corps in putting together an independent welcoming reception for Company D, of the 4th Illinois Infantry. However, neither organization could use any of their funds, but would proceed anyways, finding a way as they went. Hecker Post participated in the public welcoming ceremony of the Spanish-American War Veterans upon their return to Belleville, on 4 May, 1899; as Captain Schrader of Company D, maintained the organizational body of the company after their mustering out on 2 May, 1899. They formed ranks at the Belleville Railroad depot and march north up Illinois Street to the Public Square.
The WRC Ball and Banquet was held on 12 May, 1899; with the Post supporting the night of entertainment, along with the surviving Mexican War veterans. Local soldiers whether they were from the 4th Illinois or the 6th Missouri were all in attendance, with their loved ones. Illinois Department & Corps President Mrs. Carrie Thomas-Alexander and the Honorable J. Nick Perrin were the keynote speakers. A cake walk was also held, songs were sung and a good time was held by all. The WRC who sold tickets for the reception spent $90 for the reception, and made at least $30 in profit.
The Hecker Post and Corps traveled to Danville, Illinois for the Department Encampment between 15-17 May 1899. The Post delegates were Commander Fuess, Comrades Charles P. Fleischbein, George Daesch, and David B. Heller. Mrs. Thomas-Alexander was succeeded by Mrs. Means of Chicago, as President of the Illinois WRC Department.
The Memorial Day Divine Services were held at the Baptist Church on 28 May, 1899; with the Reverend Brownson leading the service and gave an address entitled the “New Nation”. There were about fifty GAR comrades, sixty Corps members and several Spanish-American War veterans in attendance.
On Memorial Day, the Spanish-American War veterans participated willingly and it was reported that they looked sharp, formed up and marching with the Hecker Post and UVL veterans. The veterans personally decorated the 350 Civil War graves in and around the Belleville area. Mr. James M. Dill was the guest speaker, and the WRC preformed the “Service for the Unknown Dead” after the GAR ceremony had concluded. Comrade Richard Wangelin, was the guest speaker for the Wangelin Post #588 in Lebanon, which was named after his father Hugo Wangelin.
The Corps led by President Carrie Thomas-Alexander assembled and surprised the Hecker Post comrades during a regularly scheduled business meeting, on 28 June, 1899. The comrades immediately placed their business aside, escorted the ladies into the meeting hall and then showed them to their seats. President Thomas-Alexander was escorted to the front of the hall and seated next to Commander Fuess. She gave a short speech before donating $50.00 to the Post, for the purpose of that no comrade of the Grand Army, should ever be forced to give up his membership due to health, poverty or various causes, the money was to be applied to reinstate comrades who have been dropped from the rolls. Mrs. Thomas-Alexander learned of this from a report that was received by Illinois Grand Army PDC John C. Black, that many comrades within the state were forced to make a choice and that should never happen in Belleville. The ever present P.M. Romeiser stated that the Hecker Post “has done all in its power to retain every comrade in full membership”. Afterwards, the Hecker Quartette sang songs, and everyone enjoyed cake and ice cream.
The Relief Corps held a picnic at Priester’s Park, in West Belleville; as it was a traditional picnic basket lunch, on 21 July, 1899. Over fifty members of the Corps were in attendance and much fun was had until the “400 Club” arrived and ordered the Relief Corps away, as their rental time had come. Many members of the Relief Corps wanted to stay and see their sons and daughters dance, but to no avail, as the “400 Club” even was combative with Mrs. Thomas-Alexander; who pleaded to let those that wanted to watch, do so. Afterwards, once the newspapers heard about the altercation, the “400 Club” vanished from the Belleville public scene.
September 4-9, 1899; a small group of Comrades traveled to Philadelphia for the 33rd National Encampment of the Grand Army of the Republic held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. They rode aboard a chartered train, at the invitation of the Frank Blair Post #1, in St. Louis, MO. The Post didn’t attend the Annual Southern Illinois Soldiers and Sailors Reunion, as it was held in Olney, Illinois; between 4-6 October, 1899, but a few comrades went on their own.
On 7 October, 1899; the Relief Corps was inspected by Mrs. Anna Turk, of Plymouth, Illinois, who found the Corps in the “very best of condition, ranking as high as any corps within the State”. In her address with the Hecker Corps “work and splendid financial condition.” Afterwards the ladies of the Corps presented Mrs. Turk a souvenir spoon, while Mrs. Thomas-Alexander was presented with a bouquet of roses, which were reported beautiful and fragrant.
A surprise to the Corps was in store at their 21 October, 1899 meeting, when Mrs. Thomas-Alexander resigned as Corps President for personal and business reasons. Mrs. Perle Smith was then installed as Corps President to fulfill the term. Mrs. Emma Powell also resigned from the Relief Committee, citing health reasons, and was replaced by Mrs. Elise Kueffner.
The Corps re-elected Mrs. Thomas-Alexander on December 18, 1899; as President, relieving Mrs. Perle Smith. They had 118 members on the rolls of the Hecker Corps.
The comrades of the Hecker Post finished up their year, on the 27th of December, 1899; with the election of the 1900 Post Officers. William Schlott was elected Post Commander as Commander Fuess stepped aside. After the meeting, Captain Fuess and many of the comrades went over to the National Hotel where a pleasant social hour was held.
During this time, the Hecker Post reached new heights, with the election of one of their own as Department Commander, but the comrades remained true to their cause. They wholeheartedly supported the War with Spain, and did their part to welcome the returning veterans home. But most importantly, their alliance with the Women’s Relief Corps was a strong one, and when the ladies of the Corps took the lead, the veterans supported them.
Information From:
Belleville Weekly Advocate: 8 March 1895, 22 March 1895, 12 April 1895, 19 April 1895, 3 May 1895, 17 May 1895, 24 May 1895, 31 May 1895, 14 June 1895, 21 June 1895, 5 July 1895, 19 July 1895, 26 July 1895, 2 August 1895, 16 August 1895, 23 August 1895, 6 September 1895, 1 November, 1895, 10 January 1896, 24 January 1896, 21 February 1896, 26 February 1896, 13 March 1896, 20 March 1896, 3 April 1896, 1 May 1896, 15 May 1896, 22 May 1896, 29 May 1896, 5 June 1896, 3 July 1896, 17 July 1896, 14 August 1896, 21 August 1896, 18 December 1896, 25 December 1896; 1 January 1897, 22 January 1897, 5 February 1897, 21 February 1897, 26 February 1897; 5 March 1897, 2 April 1897, 9 April 1897, 30 April 1897, 28 May 1897, 4 June 1897, 25 June 1897, 23 July 1897, 20 August 1897, 24 December 1897, 4 March 1898, 29 April 1898, 13 May 1898, 20 May 1898, 3 June 1898, 24 June 1898; 29 July 1898, 5 August 1898, 24 August 1898, 9 September 1898, 28 October 1898, 30 December 1898.
Belleville Daily Advocate: 4 January 1899, 13 January 1899, 23 January 1899, 28 February 1899, 1 March 1899, 2 March 1899, 10 April 1899, 17 April 1899, 24 April 1899, 4 May 1899, 10 May 1899, 13 May 1899, 22 May 1899, 25 May 1899, 29 May 1899, 30 May 1899, 31 May 1899, 6 June 1899, 29 June 1899, 20 July 1899; 22 July 1899, 15 August 1899, 20 September 1899, 3 October 1899, 7 October, 1899, 21 October 1899, 18 December 1899, 28 December 1899
City of Belleville – City Council Minutes, 6 January, 1896. Roll 30, Reel 4, Page 112
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