DEDICATION AND UNVEILING OF REVOLUTIONARY

WAR SOLDIER MARKER

FOR

SAMUEL FERGUSON

On December 10, 2005, the Wayne County Genealogical And Historical Society held a dedication service honoring Revolutionary War Soldier Samuel Ferguson. Past President of the Society, Herbert Dawson served as Master of Ceremonies. The service began with the posting of the Colors by American Legion Post 89 and Veterans Of Foreign Wars Post 6103. Then the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Society Vice President James Goode, followed by the singing of the National Anthem. Emanuel Ferguson gave the invocation, followed by welcoming remarks by Jamie Ferguson, Clerk of The Circuit Court of Wayne County. James Booton, member of the Wayne County Commission then introduced dignitaries attending, followed by introduction of Society Officers by James Goode.

A lengthy and interesting talk about the life of Samuel Ferguson was then given by Steven Lewis. Steven is the Family Law Master of Wayne County and a long time researcher of history and genealogy. This was followed by the audience singing America The Beautiful, after which the dedication services closed with the benediction by Fred Ferguson.

Following the dedication service, the unveiling of the roadside marker took place, with Howard Osburn and James Booton removing the covering from the sign. Then the Honor Guard performed a twenty one gun salute, followed by the playing of Taps.

Our appreciation to Dewey Johnson and his staff at the Johnson-Nichols Funeral Home for their assistance. The roadside marker was erected almost in front of the Funeral Home. During erection, Dewey came to watch with much interest. He then asked us about the program, and since it was going to be in mid December, Dewey offered the use of the Funeral Home facilities to assure we would not be out in the weather.

A reception was held at the Society Library after the completion of the ceremony, with several attending. Thanks to all who attended and supported our Society.

Below are some photos of the program.

The Honor Guard

Herb Dawson - Master of Ceremonies                            Jamie Ferguson

James Booton                                                                               Steven Lewis

        Jim Booton looks on while Howard Osburn             unveils  the Marker

James Goode introducing the Society Officers

The Marker unveiled......                                                              As the crowd looks on.

The Honor Guard fires the Twenty One Gun Salute

                                                                                                While the sounding of Taps completes the program

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