Vernon Eagle Scout Project Focused On New Historic Monument

VERNON, CT — A Vernon scout is taking on an Eagle project that is steeped in historical significance, along with being completely unique.

Josh Prignano recently had his Eagle Scout community project approved and is planning a fundraiser for next week to help get it done. The Vernon resident wants to install a granite stone monument on the Vernon Rails-to-Trails system dedicated to the men from Rockville who fought in the Civil War. Placement will be at the Vernon Depot Historic Park on the trail spur on Church Street, where soldiers embarked to the war on a train and, hopefully, came back.

In addition to the monument, bushes and other plantings will surround it, Prignano said. The New England Civil War Museum and Research Center has endorsed the project, which it has envisioned for some time. Prignano is part of Scout Troop 20/20 out of Vernon.

The estimated total cost of the project is $1,200 and Prignano is seeking volunteer workers as well as monetary donations. Work days will likely be scheduled in late June or early July, depending on when the stone will be delivered.

A dedication will be scheduled after installation.

The fundraiser will take on a theme Prignano embellishes both as a Civil War and Revolutionary War re-enactor — music. It is scheduled for April 21 from noon to to 3 p.m. at Central Park in Vernon, which sits in the shadow of the museum on the second floor of Vernon Town Hall. The museum is in a fully preserved Grand Army of The Republic Hall, which hosted veterans meetings.

The fundraiser will be a fife and drum-themed event with several corps participating along with guest speakers talking about the importance of music during the Civil War.

Admission is free, but donations can be made at the museum on that day.