Picture Vernon: A War Hero ... 160 Years After Gettysburg

VERNON, CT — This week's installment of the Picture Vernon series takes us to Grove Hill Cemetery. There sits the grave of Benjamin Hirst, who fought in the Civil War Battle of Gettysburg 160 year ago this weekend.

Hirst was wounded during one of the most famed moments in one of the most famed battles in U.S. history.

According to the Vernon Historical Society, Hirst served in Company D of the 14th Connecticut Infantry Regiment. The regiment had many members from Vernon and Rockville and experienced heavy action.

Hirst enlisted on July 16, 1862 and was mustered in as a sergeant. He saw action at the Battle at Antietam in September 1862.

Gettysburg took place on July 1, 2 and 3, 1863 and Hirst was wounded in the shoulder as the regiment faced Pickett's Charge on the final day of battle.

Hirst was later discharged due to his wounds, according to historical society records.

He returned home to Rockville and lived until 1909, dying at the age of 81. His letters to his wife Sarah at home in Rockville were collected and published in the book, "The Boys From Rockville." Hirst is featured on the book's cover.

His grave is decorated with an American Flag and a Grand Army of the Republic marker.

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Picture Vernon is a periodic series featuring images of the town, past and present.