The 16-foot statue of a Civil War-era soldier has been a landmark on the town common for 146 years.

Over 500 people turned out for the dedication on May 30, 1891.

“Erected by the citizens of Shirley in memory of those brave men who in response to the nation’s call hazarded their lives to suppress the great rebellion, 1861 to 1865,” reads the inscription on the base. Above it is an emblem of two flags with crossed staves.

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