Tuesday Tidbits

  

1. This old weathered tombstone is in Candor Cemetery where my folks are, along with a hefty number of residents of Seaton, many of whom I remember.  Under this stone resides a genuine hero.  While that word is diluted a bit in this age of honoring any group of employees serving citizens at large, this man, James Burnett is the real deal. 

Mr. Burnett was a Captain in Illinois's 30th Regiment, Company G.  He died on May 16th 1863 in the Battle of Champion Hill.  Champion Hill was the deciding confrontation in the Battle Of Vicksburg. 

   

Aledo Weekly Record
Tuesday, Aug 25, 1863
FUNERAL OF CAPT. JAS. BURNETT, which occurred in this place, Tuesday last, was largely attended by his many friends and acquaintances throughout the County, each anxious to pay their tribute of respect to the memory of one who had fallen, while defending the cause so near and dear to every patriot's heart. His remains were conveyed to the Candor Church-yard, for internment, and very appropriately wrapped in the American Flag, followed by a large procession, including quite a number of soldiers, preceded with martial music. Col. Shedd, Capt. Sanders, Capt. Scudder, Lieuts. Gibson McClure, and Blackburn, acting as pall-bears. At the grave they were met by large numbers from that vicinity, where the remains of Captain James Burnet were consigned to their last resting place with military honors.

2.  I like going to Tanner's Orchard this time of year.  Cider donuts (both varieties, sugared and plain) are a tasty Fall treat.  Pat, her daughter, Shelley, and Pat's great-granddaughter, Addison, joined me on this ritual trip.    

Here are pictures of the play area for children.  There is a high mound which I scaled like a limber, gray-haired old billy goat.  The proliferation of village approved golf carts, cell towers and windmills is something I've noticed on my journeys back to Northlandia. 

While checking out the real caboose I heard a kid say to her grandmother, " I have to go to the bathroom." 

Granny replied to the kid in a kind of resigned voice, "I have to go home.  We've been here 2 hours and I'm wearing out." 

For those who have never been, like Holly, I heartily recommend the trip over, even if it takes a while to reach Speer, Illinois.  Avoid weekends if you can, it becomes quite congested later in the season.    

 Cider Donuts and Apple Fritters

3.  I like Tanner's so much I thought Kenzie, Drew and Norah should have something.  So I sent them a care package containing cider doughnuts, caramel corn and a cool knitted hat for Norah.