Editorials

A new monument now stands on the grounds of the Lawrence County courthouse. It’s the second one put there to honor Alabama soldiers who served in the Civil War. The first, placed by the Sons of Confederate Veterans, honors those who fought for the Confederacy. The new one honors those who fought for the Union.

It has long been known — and to some kept as our “dirty little secret” — that around 2,700 whites from northwest Alabama joined the U.S. Army in the Civil War, along with more than 10,000 African-Americans who left plantations to enlist. Yet there are still people who, having been raised on history that told of Confederate solidarity, are surprised to discover that the so-called “Tories of the Hills” were recruited to form units like the First Alabama Cavalry, U.S.A., which not only fought bravely and well, but provided valuable information on local roads and terrain.

The north Alabama hills had long been home to farmers who owned no slaves and were politically opposed to those who did. Seeing the Confederacy and the war as another effort by planters to keep their bondsmen, many felt, as a Winston County father told his son, that “after you do there fighting, you may kiss their hine parts for o they care.” Not so inclined, many hill-country folk joined the other side.

Now they have a monument, thanks to a group, “The Friendly Five,” that raised the money and convinced the County Commission to allow it.

Although the majority of Alabamians rallied to the Confederate cause at the outset, and most who survived remained loyal to the end, there were others who were loyal to the United States. This monument is worthwhile.

They were no less brave or less honorable than those they fought against. Their sacrifice for their cause should be remembered, for it is also our heritage. Lawrence County should be commended for making sure the historical record is correct.