A monument to the Confederate Soldiers of Polk County who served in The War Between the States (Civil War) 1861-1865, will be placed on the Benton Courthouse square by the United Daughters of the Confederacy Chapters from Tellico Plains and Cleveland, many of whose ancestors were soldiers from Polk County.

To personally honor your Confederate Ancestor, for a donation of $10 you will receive a certificate for framing documenting the soldier’s service. If you are not sure you have a Confederate Ancestor, we will be pleased to help you find out. The Polk County Historical and Genealogical Library in Benton has extensive data on the War and they are always happy to assist you.

Polk County was one of only four counties in East Tennessee that voted to secede from the Union. Many of the men from Polk County joined in surrounding counties, including Georgia and this can be checked as well. Your ancestor may have served in another capacity such as giving material aid or serving as Justice of the Peace, state or county government, or as a Judge during the years 1861-1865.

Your ancestor’s name and your name as his descendant will be placed on the honor roll (which is part of the dedication program) to be given out at the memorial dedication service. Plans are to dedicate the monument in April of 2009. April is Confederate History Month.

Your ancestor may not have served from Polk County or even from the State of Tennessee, but if you wish to honor him with a Certificate, his name will appear on the honor roll as well.

There will be a booth at the Polk County Fair with limited information on Confederate Soldiers available. Please come by and talk with the ladies and gentlemen who will be present in period dress. You may take a picture of yourself with them for a $10 donation.

All monies will go toward the Monument. Other donations, which will be gratefully accepted, can be sent to the Polk County Confederate Memorial Fund at the Benton Bank. These donations will also be listed on the program, if you permit.

For further information, please contact Sharon Cain, 423/338-2291, e-mail: tedcain@bellsouth.net, or contact Marion Presswood at the Historical Society, 423/338-1005.