Photo AlbumKentucky Memorial Finding Aid Hambleton Tapp, State Historian of the Kentucky Historical Society, writes to Superintendent Jerry Schober to express continued interest in establishing a Kentucky memorial at Gettysburg. Tapp proposes replacing the Gettysburg Address plaque and requests details on its dimensions and material. He also inquires if acknowledging the Commonwealth of Kentucky on the plaque would be acceptable. Tapp asks for additional suggestions if the fountain idea is not feasible and mentions a brief conversation with Mr. Morton regarding the issue. 6. Chester L. Brooks, Regional Director, Mid-Atlantic Region, to Superintendent of Gettysburg, February 20, 1974. Chester L. Brooks, Regional Director, writes to the Superintendent of Gettysburg about Kentucky's proposal for a memorial in the Gettysburg National Cemetery. While supportive, he finds the proposed memorial too large and suggests a smaller design, such as a low incline stone with the Great Seal of Kentucky and the Gettysburg Address. He also considers a modest memorial at the site of President Eisenhower's participation in the Centennial observation acceptable. 7. Thomas J. Harrison, Acting Superintendent of Gettysburg, to Regional Director, Mid-Atlantic Region, February 20, 1974. Thomas J. Harrison, Acting Superintendent of Gettysburg, submits a proposed layout for a grey Georgia granite tablet to be donated by the State of Kentucky. The tablet, to be installed at the Soldiers’ Monument in Gettysburg National Cemetery, would support three bronze blocks replicating the pages of Lincoln's Gettysburg Address. Harrison suggests three possible inscriptions honoring President Lincoln, a native of Kentucky. The proposed stone dimensions are 51" x 27.5" x 16" x 25", replacing an earlier, larger proposal. Harrison requests feedback on the design. 8. Eugene G. Parisho, Acting Regional Director, Mid-Atlantic Region, to Superintendent of Gettysburg, April 3, 1974. Eugene G. Parisho, Acting Regional Director, reviews the proposed layout for a monument from the State of Kentucky. While the concept is good, he suggests the park outline the need and let the state develop the design. He recommends providing the designer with a copy of the Bliss Copy of the Gettysburg Address, proposed text, and a photograph of the intended location. Parisho requests the opportunity to review the design before final approval. 9. Jerry L. Schober, Superintendent of Gettysburg, to Robert Kinnaird, April 24, 1974. Jerry L. Schober, Superintendent of Gettysburg, reviews the proposed stone tablet design for a Gettysburg Address exhibit at the Soldiers’ Monument. He suggests using an exact copy of the Bliss Copy of the Gettysburg Address and provides a caption honoring President Lincoln. Schober outlines size limitations for the stone support and recommends an inclined face for viewing. He requests a design incorporating these elements for review by the National Park Service. 10. Robert B. Kinnaird to Newton Sikes, August 26, 1974. Robert B. Kinnaird thanks Newton Sikes for his hospitality during their visit to Gettysburg. He confirms that the monument's size, shape, and location have been agreed upon and that the process of creating the monument has begun, aiming for a dedication on November 19, 1975. Kinnaird requests Colonel Jacob Sheads' address to thank him for his tour and expresses gratitude for Sikes' assistance. 11. Thomas J. Harrison to Robert Kinnaird, September 24, 1974. Thomas J. Harrison acknowledges Robert Kinnaird's letter regarding the proposed stone tablet exhibit at the Soldiers National Monument. He advises holding off on starting the project until the regional office reviews the design. Harrison provides the contact address for Jacob M. Sheads. 12. John R. Earnst to Robert Kinnaird, December 12, 1974. John R. Earnst, Superintendent, requests a copy of the proposed design for the stone tablet exhibit to be donated by the State of Kentucky. He needs the drawings to forward to the regional director for review. 13. Robert B. Kinnaird to Thomas J. Harrison, December 12, 1974. Robert B. Kinnaird writes to Thomas J. Harrison regarding the status of the Kentucky monument project. After agreeing on the monument's dimensions and location during a visit to Gettysburg, Kinnaird received a letter advising to halt the project. He requests an update on the project's status, expressing eagerness to complete it. 14. Robert B. Kinnaird to John R. Earnst, January 2, 1975. Robert B. Kinnaird thanks John R. Earnst for his letter regarding the Kentucky Monument and encloses copies of related correspondence. Kinnaird suggests that the missing drawings may have been sent to the regional office and asks if there is anything else needed to expedite the project. He extends New Year greetings. 15. John R. Earnst to Robert Kinnaird, January 13, 1975. John R. Earnst, Superintendent, reviews the Kentucky Monument project and notes the need for a detailed drawing as requested by the regional office. He outlines specific details missing from the current design, such as the caption, script size, stone type, base, foundation, and attachment method. Earnst provides examples of other monument layouts to assist in developing a suitable design and requests the updated drawing for regional review. 16. Margaret Campbell, Lucille Bryan Owings, and Laye Amos to The Honorable Carroll Hubbard, Jr., February 10, 1975. Margaret Campbell, Lucille Bryars Owings, and Kaye Amos write to Congressman Carroll Hubbard, Jr., about Troop 252's plans to attend the dedication of the Kentucky Marker at Gettysburg on November 19, 1975. They seek assistance in planning their visit to Washington, D.C., including visits to various sites and offices. They also express interest in publicizing the event as part of Kentucky's Bicentennial celebration and discuss the importance of historical development in Hickman County. 17. Robert B. Kinnaird to John R. Earnst, February 19, 1975. Robert B. Kinnaird thanks John R. Earnst for his guidance on the Kentucky Monument project. He informs Earnst that the monument company has been instructed accordingly and that the drawings will be forwarded once received. Kinnaird expresses appreciation for Earnst's assistance and courtesies. 18. Gary Everhardt to Honorable Carroll Hubbard, Jr., February 24, 1975. Gary Everhardt, Director, acknowledges Congressman Carroll Hubbard, Jr.'s inquiry on behalf of Margaret Campbell, Lucille Bryars Owings, and Kaye Amos regarding Gettysburg National Military Park. Everhardt informs Hubbard that an official from the Mid-Atlantic region will respond directly to expedite the reply. 19. Division of Legislative Services to Mid-Atlantic Region, February 24, 1975. The Division of Legislative Services forwards correspondence to the Mid-Atlantic Region for a direct reply to Congressman Carroll Hubbard, Jr. The memo notes that the Kentucky marker design has not yet been approved and suggests providing an estimated approval timeline to help plan a ceremony. The original constituent letter should be returned with the final reply. 20. Nathan B. Golub, Associate Regional Director, Park System Management, to Superintendent of Gettysburg, February 28, 1975. Nathan B. Golub, Associate Regional Director, forwards a congressional inquiry from Congressman Carroll Hubbard, Jr. regarding the dedication of the Kentucky Marker at Gettysburg National Military Park. He requests a direct reply to Representative Hubbard and copies of the reply sent to both the Washington office and the regional office. 21. John R. Earnst to Hon. Carroll Hubbard, Jr., March 6, 1975. John R. Earnst, Superintendent, responds to Congressman Carroll Hubbard, Jr.'s inquiry regarding the proposed Kentucky Memorial at Gettysburg National Military Park. He clarifies that the final design has not yet been submitted or approved. The dedication date will depend on the design's approval and installation. Earnst hopes this clarifies the misunderstanding. 22. W. R. Buster to John R. Earnst, March 26, 1975. W. R. Buster, Director of the Kentucky Historical Society, informs Superintendent John R. Earnst that the design details for the Kentucky monument at Gettysburg are being forwarded. Buster mentions a tentative dedication date of November 19, 1975, and expresses appreciation for the cooperation from the National Park Service. He hopes the design, site, and date can be confirmed soon. 23. Superintendent of Gettysburg to Regional Director, Mid-Atlantic Region, April 23, 1975. The Superintendent of Gettysburg submits the design for the proposed Kentucky Monument at the Soldiers’ National Monument. He recommends changing the caption to focus on the Soldiers’ Monument and notes discrepancies in the representation of the Kentucky state seal. The design was requested by Acting Regional Director Parisho. 24. G. Gordon Bruce, Regional Director, Mid-Atlantic Region, to Superintendent of Gettysburg, April 30, 1975. G. Gordon Bruce, Regional Director, approves the design and site plan for the proposed Kentucky Monument at the National Cemetery, subject to the recommended text change and clarification of the state seal. 25. John B. Earnst, Superintendent, to Mr. Robert B. Kinnaird, Kinnaird Chescheir Company, May 28, 1975. Superintendent Earnst confirms the Regional Director's approval of the design for the proposed stone tablet donation by the State of Kentucky. The approval is contingent on changes to the text and clarification of the state seal. He expresses eagerness to work with Mr. Kinnaird and his committee to complete the project. 26. I. Daniel Kreutzer, Administrative Assistant, to Mr. David L. Lewis, Business Manager, The National Historical Society, October 7, 1975. Kreutzer expresses his pleasure from a recent visit to Gettysburg and his appreciation for the hospitality shown by Mr. Lewis. He mentions the upcoming visit of the Governor for the dedication of the Kentucky Monument to President Lincoln and looks forward to reciprocating the kindness shown during his visit. 27. Dave Lewis to Chester S. Shriver, Lincoln Fellowship of Pennsylvania, October 8, 1975. Lewis informs Shriver about the reservation of the banquet room at the Holiday Inn for a luncheon on November 19, detailing the menu and cost. He requests confirmation of the number of attendees by November 17 and asks for a list of committee members and notes from a recent board meeting to prepare a report. 28. David L. Lewis, Secretary, Lincoln Fellowship, to John Earnst, National Park Service, October 9, 1975. Lewis provides Earnst with copies of letters containing information about the Lincoln Fellowship event on November 19. He mentions that he will keep Earnst informed of any future developments. 29. Superintendent John R. Earnst to Mr. I. Daniel Kreutzer, Administrative Assistant, Office of the Governor, October 14, 1975. The author apologizes for missing Mr. Kreutzer and Dr. Rankin during their recent visit to Gettysburg. They discuss plans for the dedication of the Kentucky Monument on November 19, including the invitation of various dignitaries and logistical details for the event. The author suggests including a formal presentation of the monument and inviting key officials from the Department of the Interior and the National Park Service. 30. Julian M. Carroll, Governor of Kentucky, to Mr. Chester L. Brooks, Regional Director, National Park Service, November 7, 1975. Governor Carroll invites Mr. Brooks to the dedication ceremony of the Kentucky Monument to Abraham Lincoln at Gettysburg on November 19. He highlights the significance of the event and requests confirmation of Mr. Brooks' attendance by November 12. 31.A-B. D. L. Lewis to Lincoln Fellowship of Pennsylvania, [Date Missing]. Lewis provides an update on the arrangements for the dedication of the Kentucky Monument on November 19. He details the involvement of various individuals and groups, including Governor Carroll, Monsignor Charles C. Boldrick, and a Girl Scout troop. He also mentions logistical details such as the luncheon, the unveiling of the monument, and the presentation of honorary doctorate degrees. 32.A-B. Lincoln Fellowship of Pennsylvania, Program for the One Hundred Twelfth Anniversary of Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address and Dedication of the Kentucky State Monument, November 19, 1975. The program outlines the schedule for the Dedication Day events, including a luncheon at the Holiday Inn and a dedication ceremony at the Soldiers’ National Cemetery. Key participants include Governor Julian N. Carroll, various clergymen, and the Gettysburg Senior High School Band. The program also lists the officers and directors of the Lincoln Fellowship of Pennsylvania for 1974-1975. 33. Chester S. Shriver, President, Lincoln Fellowship of Pennsylvania, to Fellowship Members. Shriver announces the plans for the observance of Dedication Day on November 19, 1975. The event includes a luncheon and business session at the Holiday Inn, followed by a commemorative service at the Soldiers’ Monument. The Honorable Julian N. Carroll, Governor of Kentucky, will deliver the address. Members are invited to make reservations by November 17. 34. John R. Earnst, Superintendent, to Mr. Gerald E. White, Fire Chief, Gettysburg Volunteer Fire Department, November 25, 1975. Superintendent Earnst expresses gratitude to Chief White and the Ambulance Squad for their standby coverage during the Kentucky Memorial Dedication ceremonies on November 19. He acknowledges the reassurance their presence provided to the elderly attendees and appreciates their cooperation. 35. John R. Earnst, Superintendent, to Mr. Charles Kuhn, Borough Manager, Borough of Gettysburg, November 25, 1975. Superintendent Earnst thanks Mr. Kuhn for his assistance in preparing for the Kentucky Memorial dedication in the National Cemetery. He highlights the importance of the bunting and traffic control provided and appreciates Kuhn's cooperative spirit. 36. John R. Earnst, Superintendent, to Mr. Robert B. Kinnaird, November 26, 1975. Superintendent Earnst expresses his pleasure in working with Mr. Kinnaird on the Kentucky Marker Project. He describes the experience as rewarding and looks forward to future opportunities to collaborate. 37. John R. Earnst, Superintendent, to Hon. Julian N. Carroll, Governor of Kentucky, November 26, 1975. Superintendent Earnst thanks Governor Carroll for his participation in the dedication of the Kentucky Marker at Gettysburg National Cemetery. He also expresses gratitude for being commissioned as a Kentucky Colonel, describing it as a memorable honor. Earnst mentions the pleasure of serving the Governor and his family during their visit. 38. John R. Earnst, Superintendent, to Dr. Frank G. Rankin, November 26, 1975. Superintendent Earnst expresses gratitude to Dr. Rankin for his cooperation and support during the dedication ceremonies for Kentucky's marker at the National Cemetery. He also thanks Dr. Rankin for the honors extended to him and Director Gary Everhardt at the Dedication Day luncheon. Earnst looks forward to future collaborations with Dr. Rankin, the Kentucky State Historical Society, and Lincoln Memorial University. 39. "Monument Revealed," Hanover Sun Shopper’s Guide, Vol. No. 51, November 26, 1975. The article describes the unveiling of a granite monument at Gettysburg National Cemetery, where Kentucky Governor Julian Carroll dedicated a marker bearing Abraham Lincoln's handwritten Gettysburg Address. The monument was placed largely through the efforts of a Kentucky Girl Scout Troop. 40. John R. Earnst, Superintendent, to Mr. John Kerr, Manager, Gettysburg Motor Lodge, November 28, 1975. Superintendent Earnst thanks Mr. Kerr for providing a rest stop facility for Governor Julian Carroll and his party. He appreciates the extra welcome extended to the distinguished visitor, reflecting Kerr's gracious hospitality. 41. John R. Earnst, Superintendent, to Mrs. Barbara Schutt, November 28, 1975. Superintendent Earnst thanks Mrs. Schutt for providing a guided tour for the Kentucky Girl Scout contingent on November 18. He commends her spirit of cooperation and high-quality service to the visiting public. 42. John R. Earnst, Superintendent, to Mr. Delbert J. Gatton, December 5, 1975. Superintendent Earnst encloses photographs from the Lincoln Fellowship Luncheon and the dedication ceremony of the Kentucky Memorial at Gettysburg National Cemetery. He also includes coverage from "The Gettysburg Times" and offers to provide additional prints if needed. Earnst expresses his pleasure in hosting the Governor and the Kentucky State delegation and offers further assistance if required. 43. Frank G. Rankin, Founding President, to Hon. Julian N. Carroll, Governor, Commonwealth of Kentucky, December 8, 1975. Rankin thanks Governor Carroll for his impactful speech at Gettysburg and mentions plans to reprint it in the Lincoln Herald and their own publication. He invites the Governor to the Robert E. Lee Birthday Dinner on January 19 at Big Springs Country Club, where Carroll will be honored with an honorary life membership. Rankin also notes the presence of Dr. Thomas E. Clark as the guest speaker. 44. Frank G. Rankin, to Dr. Gary Everhardt, Director, National Park Service, December 8, 1975. Rankin thanks Dr. Everhardt for his role in the erection and dedication of the Kentucky Memorial at Gettysburg. He also expresses gratitude for Everhardt accepting an honorary doctorate from Lincoln Memorial University and praises John R. Earnst for his outstanding contributions. 45. Frank G. Rankin, to Mr. Chester L. Brooks, Regional Director, Mid-Atlantic Region, National Park Service, December 8, 1975. Rankin thanks Mr. Brooks for the invaluable assistance provided by the Park Service in making the November 19 dedication a success. He praises John R. Earnst for his outstanding contributions and mentions Harold "John" Howard's impressive portrayal of a Confederate soldier. Rankin invites Brooks to visit Lincoln Memorial University next year. 46. Frank G. Rankin, to Hon. Chester S. Shriver, Past President, Lincoln Fellowship of Pennsylvania, December 8, 1975. Rankin expresses deep gratitude to Shriver and the Lincoln Fellowship of Pennsylvania for their significant contribution to the success of the Kentucky Memorial dedication. He appreciates their hospitality and warmth, which made the Kentucky delegation feel at home, and hopes to reciprocate in the future. 47. Frank G. Rankin, to Mr. Roger Parcels, Board Director, Gettysburg Area High School, December 8, 1975. Rankin thanks Mr. Parcels and the Gettysburg Area High School band for their excellent performance during the Kentucky Memorial dedication. He praises their rendition of "My Old Kentucky Home" and expresses pride in their contribution to the event's success. 48. Frank G. Rankin, to Hon. Joseph H. Riley, D.D.S., President, Lincoln Fellowship of Pennsylvania, December 8, 1975. Rankin commends Dr. Riley and the Lincoln Fellowship for their exceptional hospitality and support during the Kentucky Memorial dedication. He expresses eternal gratitude for their efforts in making the event a great success. 49. Frank G. Rankin, to Hon. David L. Lewis, December 8, 1975. Rankin expresses profound gratitude to Lewis for his exceptional efforts in organizing the Kentucky Memorial dedication at Gettysburg. He acknowledges Lewis's meticulous attention to detail and credits him for the event's success, expressing eternal gratitude. 50. Frank G. Rankin to John R. Earnst, Received December 10, 1975. Rankin encloses copies of his thank-you notes and expresses deep appreciation for Earnst's efforts in making the November 19th event a success. He extends an invitation for Earnst and his wife to visit and hopes for the timely arrival of Earnst's Kentucky Colonel commission. 51. Acceptance Remarks for the State of Kentucky Marker Tablet. The speaker acknowledges the efforts of Governor Carroll, the Kentucky Historical Society, General William Buster, Dr. Frank Rankin, Mr. Robert Kinnaird, and the people of Kentucky in the dedication of the marker tablet. The remarks honor Abraham Lincoln and the contributions of Kentuckians during the Civil War, including Major General John Buford and Confederate Generals John Hood and Jerome Robertson. The speaker accepts the marker on behalf of the United States, the Department of the Interior, and the National Park Service. 52. "Proposed Layout Gettysburg Address Stone Tablet by State of Kentucky.” This document is a blueprint for the Kentucky monument, detailing the proposed layout of the Gettysburg Address stone tablet. It includes design specifications and placement instructions for the tablet, which commemorates Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address and honors the contributions of Kentuckians during the Civil War.
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Last updated: March 14, 2025