Sitting on the north side of the Johnson County Courthouse in Franklin, Indiana is a striking memorial/fountain commemorating the valor of Union Soldiers from Johnson County during the Civil War. John Vawter was a businessman and banker from Franklin. He donated the memorial in 1905. It includes a bronze statue by artist Rudolph Schwarz.
This is a wonderful memorial to the men who served in the Civil War. The anachronism? As a history nerd who has been interested in, and studied military history, I need to point out that the arms and accoutrements on the cavalry trooper looking out over the battlefield are of a kind that did not even exist in 1861 to 1865.
Detail of the Model 1873 Trapdoor Springfield
The carbine is a Springfield “Trapdoor” that fired a 45/50 cartridge. This firearm was not invented until 1873, and was issued in both rifle and carbine lengths. The cartridge box on the trooper’s belt appears to also be from the 1870’s and designed for brass cartridges. The statue is a very good portrayal of a trooper from the mid 1870’s on.
This is an impressive memorial, complete with all branches of the services represented under the lion heads fountains. It is interesting that the statue artist picked the wrong model for his rendition of the trooper. It doesn’t take away from the honor given to the Civil War soldiers from Johnson County.
Roadtirement 
Good catch. People don’t always pay close attention to history. Have you read “American Rifle: A Biography”? It’s a fascinating look at US history through the technical developments of the rifle.
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Actually Tim yes I have! You’re correct, what a marvelous look at US history from a not common angle. When I was in Grad school in the early 70’s at Tucson I belonged to Civil War Infantry and Indiana Wars Cavalry Memorial units. Cemented my history nerd-ness.
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It’s a great book. How cool is that.
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All I can say is great minds think together.
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It’s a beautiful memorial, Tim is right. Many people pay little attention to history. We forget who we are as a nation in doing so.
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Right on, John. You said it well! Thanks
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You’re welcome. ☺️
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I’m impressed with your knowledge. That’s something I wouldn’t have known.
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Thank you for the kind words! I became interested in military history by listening to my grandfather’s stories about his time as an ambulance driver in WWI.
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Interesting! I would not have spotted this as I know nothing of rifles or guns. thanks for this information . I learned something!!
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Glad to share, Anne.
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I like the old Court houses and statues all over the state.
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It is a treat to see the old stone courthouses. So massive and strong looking! They knew how to build them back then…
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