Looking for Revolutionary soldiers

Mar. 16—America 250 group is trying to locate graves of 20 soldiers

On Tuesday, the Lawrence County commissioners heard from Rich Donohue, who is heading up some of the America 250 projects in the county for next year's celebration of America's 250th birthday. Part of that project includes find the graves of Revolutionary soldiers whose location has been lost over the past two centuries.

He brought them up to date on several things the group has put together, including a history book by retired Ohio University Southern professor Bob Leith, updating the county map with historical places around the county, updating a book on the judicial side of county government that was done by Ray Dutey years ago, fireworks, a homecoming and planting Oak trees among many other things.

One of particular note is that the State of Ohio is trying to locate the graves of Revolutionary soldiers.

"They estimate there are 7,000 veterans in the state," Donahue said, adding they put together a report that there are "roughly 36 in Lawrence County we have to locate, of which, we knew where about 16 are."

One is the fourth great-grandfather of Common Pleas Judge Andy Ballard.

"He does not have a grave marker and it is our plan to apply for one," Donahue said. He said a book published for the country's Bicentennial only had the site of three Revolutionary soldiers. "I think it is about time we represent Lawrence County and those veterans."

He added that they have secured funding for fireworks in Ironton on the Fourth of July 2026. There will be more details about the America 250 events in an upcoming article.

After the meeting, the commissioners checked out Lawrence County EMS's newest ambulance which will be stationed in Chesapeake.

The commissioners meet at 10 a.m. Tuesdays on the third floor of the Lawrence County Courthouse.