In Honor of William Hewes - Plaque Rededication
Event Date/Time
-
State
Illinois
Event Location
1349 Vincennes St to start - - - moving to 550 Exchange St (for mini tour of future Museum)
Event Image
Image
Description
In 1959, the Sauk Trail Chapter, NSDAR, placed a grave marker on the grave of a local Revolutionary War Patriot, William Hewes at his grave in the Crete Cemetery at 1349 Vincennes St., Crete, IL.
In celebration of America 250!, the chapter will host a special rededication ceremony honoring this Revolutionary War Patriot on June 6, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. Hewes family descendants, local historical organizations, and community members are invited to gather in remembrance near the anniversary of his passing.
For many years, the chapter has honored Hewes near his birthday and, in partnership with his descendants, has participated in annual wreath placements at his gravesite through Wreaths Across America. Over time, deterioration of his 1959 DAR grave marker became evident as raised lettering was lost or worn away. In recognition of America’s 250th anniversary, the chapter voted to replace and rededicate the marker to ensure Hewes’ legacy is preserved for future generations.
Support for the project was made possible in part through a DAR America 250! grant, helping fund the installation of a new memorial marker. Descendants of William Hewes have remained closely involved throughout the planning process, and participants in the ceremony will include family members, the local historical society, and JROTC cadets from two local high schools.
The public is invited to attend this meaningful outdoor graveside service as the community gathers to honor the life, service, and enduring legacy of a Revolutionary War Patriot.
In celebration of America 250!, the chapter will host a special rededication ceremony honoring this Revolutionary War Patriot on June 6, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. Hewes family descendants, local historical organizations, and community members are invited to gather in remembrance near the anniversary of his passing.
For many years, the chapter has honored Hewes near his birthday and, in partnership with his descendants, has participated in annual wreath placements at his gravesite through Wreaths Across America. Over time, deterioration of his 1959 DAR grave marker became evident as raised lettering was lost or worn away. In recognition of America’s 250th anniversary, the chapter voted to replace and rededicate the marker to ensure Hewes’ legacy is preserved for future generations.
Support for the project was made possible in part through a DAR America 250! grant, helping fund the installation of a new memorial marker. Descendants of William Hewes have remained closely involved throughout the planning process, and participants in the ceremony will include family members, the local historical society, and JROTC cadets from two local high schools.
The public is invited to attend this meaningful outdoor graveside service as the community gathers to honor the life, service, and enduring legacy of a Revolutionary War Patriot.
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