Twenty-sixth Reunion Images

Web Author's Notes:
Below are images associated with the 26th Reunion of the 16th Ohio. This reunion was scheduled to coincide with the 34th G. A. R. National Encampment, schedule for September 9 to 14, which drew over 30,000 veterans from across the nation. The regimental reunion was conducted in brief as the veterans desired to enjoy the many events and sites put on by the G. A. R.

This reunion was marked by the condition of President William McKinley who had been shot by an assassin a few days earlier, on September 6th. McKinley, originally expected to fully recover, become gravely ill on September 12 and was not expected to live. McKinley died early Saturday morning, September 14. Note the black mourning ribbons attached to columns and buildings in several of the photos, indicating they were taken on or shortly after Saturday when the President died.

Photos of Cleveland public square and parade from the Cleveland Public Library.

Cleveland public square with the Society for Savings building (on left) where the 16th OVI reunion business was conducted. Note black mourning ribbons honoring the death of President William McKinley on September 14 have not yet been added to the columns.

An amazing night view of the Cleveland public square with the Society for Savings building in the center behind the star. The lights were mentioned in the reunion notes.

Another view of the Cleveland public square at night.

A view of the public square as veterans gathered before beginning the Grand Parade. The Society for Savings building is pictured in the extreme right. Men of the 16th Ohio are likely somewhere in the crowd.

Now in progress, an interesting view of the parade with a band passing by, instruments in hand and being played.

A view of the parade with veteran soldiers clearly visible along with their regimental colors and cannon. Unfortunately, these photos are not clear enough to identify any particular regiment by its flags.

The grand parade marching north on Bond Street toward a living flag made up of school children dressed in red, white and blue and positioned to create the effect of an American flag. The living flag was mentioned in the 16th OVI reunion notes.

Another view of the parade approaching the living flag (center right). Note the spectators clinging to fire escapes along the buildings.

A view of the living flag made up of 3000 school children, some holding the stars. Note the cavalry soldiers on horseback at the base of the photo. This spot is believed to be the final location of the parade route.

The Cleveland public square, now decorated with black mourning ribbons in honor of President William McKinley who died from assassination on Saturday, September 14, 1901, the day after the reunion closed. It is assumed this photo was taken on Saturday or shortly thereafter.

A closer view of the public square with mourning decorations. Note the McKinley monogram on the columns.

Some reunion attendees stayed in this temporary housing.

A souvenir program of the 35th G. A. R. National Encampment in Cleveland, Ohio.

Souvenir reunion medals and ribbon from the 35th National Encampment in Cleveland, Ohio, August 12-13, 1901.

This ribbon is believed to have been owned by Pvt. Benjamin Howard Wile, Company F, 16th OVI.

Ribbon issued to 16th Ohio veterans at the regiment's 26th annual reunion, taking place at the 35th G. A. R. National Encampment.