Civil War Research
The MAKING OF A MONUMENT: True Valor at Gettysburg
What is the story behind True Valor?
Slated for completion in Summer/Fall 2026, the True Valor monument in Lyons Central Park pays tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of the 111th New York Volunteer Infantry Regiment during the Civil War. Over 1,100 men from Wayne and Cayuga Counties enlisted in the regiment in 1862, demonstrating a powerful commitment to service that continues to inspire generations. Do you have ancestors who participated in the Civil War? Let us know!
At the heart of the memorial is a 16-foot round rose granite pedestal set within a 40-foot concrete patio. The pedestal is composed of 16 engraved panels, each listing the regiment’s major battles and the associated casualty figures, including those killed, missing, captured, and deserters. A bronze tablet at the east end of the patio interprets the scene and recounts the regiment’s heroic actions, most notably at the Battle of Gettysburg on July 2, 1863, where four color bearers lost their lives.
The monument not only preserves the memory of the regiment’s wartime contributions from 1862 through the end of the Civil War but also stands as a testament to Wayne County’s enduring legacy of patriotism and sacrifice.
PHOTOS: The first 12 months of construction, showcasing the progress
made toward this historic tribute.
Civil War Inspired - New Art
Drawn in conte format (chalk on colored paper), Gary Casteel also created this limited-edition print titled "A Hero’s Burial" Click hre for more info on the story. The image was created to capture the emotional weight of lives lost in the Civil War. 40 prints are available to purchase.