Bonnie Strassell - Owen County Historical Society

“The battle is over, and although we did not succeed in pushing the enemy out of their strong position, I am sure they have not any thing to boast about.”

With these words, Private Louis Leon, CSA, described the aftermath of the Battle of Gettysburg. 
Over three hot summer days, July 1 to July 3, 1863, around the small market town of Gettysburg, Penn., the battle raged between the Union and Confederate Armies.

“A knowledge of the past prepares us for the crisis of the present and the challenge of the future.”
These words of President John F. Kennedy are a poignant reminder of the vital necessity to preserve the history of our nation, our state, our community, and our families. Artifacts, stories, and documents of our ancestors serve as a bridge connecting us to our past.

Even into the 20th century, Owen countians were not immune to the “speckled monster.” 
It attacked young and old alike, and many did not survive its devastating assault. Through the 18th and 19th centuries, pioneer villages and towns were decimated by its onslaught, and many succumbed to the effects of this dreaded disease called smallpox.
Owen County records show that in December of 1902 a smallpox epidemic was raging in the area, and many died as it made its way from household to household.

I must offer my apology to Don and Clay Crupper and their families. Several weeks ago I introduced you to the Crupper brothers, who are caretakers of the Smith Cemetery in Breck.