A Rockford veteran, Samuel H. Bogenrief, was honored recently after nearly a century in an unmarked grave, marking a significant moment for local history. A gravestone dedication ceremony took place at Arlington Memorial Park to recognize Bogenrief’s contributions as a farrier with the 17th Illinois Cavalry during the Civil War, a conflict known for its immense loss of life.
Bogenrief, born on January 4, 1839, in New York, had a life marked by diverse experiences. He lived in various places, including Marengo and a brief time in Canada, before settling in Rockford in 1909. He passed away in 1929 at the age of 90 due to age-related illnesses. His military service, which included caring for horses, was complicated by a dishonorable discharge stemming from a dispute with an officer, later overturned, ensuring his legacy was honored.
Cemetery secretary Beverly Krenek noted that until last year, Bogenrief’s status as a Civil War veteran was not documented. A dedicated group tracking the graves of veterans in Winnebago County helped confirm his burial site. Interestingly, a newspaper article had mistakenly identified his resting place as Greenwood Cemetery, highlighting the importance of such remembrance efforts.
Bill Johnson, a member of the Sons of the Union Veterans of the Civil War, emphasized the importance of recognizing the sacrifices made by these soldiers, who played vital roles in shaping the nation during a tumultuous era.
The initiative by the Sons of Union Veterans aims to identify and honor all Union Civil War veterans across the country, reinforcing the commitment to remembering those who served and the impact they had on American history.
This event not only serves as a fitting tribute to a long-forgotten veteran but also reflects broader efforts to acknowledge and celebrate the legacies of those who fought for the nation’s unity.