Spanish-American War Cannon in Galena,Illinois-- Part 1

Came across an article about cannons in Grant Park, and one of them was a captured "magnificent trophy of war" captured from the Spanish cruiser Vizcaya at the Battle of Santiago Bay during the Spanish-American War.

Less than a year later, after efforts by US Congressman Robert Hitt, a rail car arrived in Galena carrying a 5-ton, 19-foot long cannon. It was dedicated at Galena's annual Grant Birthday Celebration April 27, 1899. It was rededicated in 1999, on the hundredth anniversary.

There are two other captured Confederate cannons from the Civil War in the park as well as a captured World War I German howitzer.

I've never heard of Grant Park despite visiting Galena many times over the years. I'll definitely have to go there he next time I'm in town.

From the Spring-Summer 2009 Galenian.