Staunton proclamation thanks Stonewall Brigade Band

Staunton City Councilwoman Andrea Oakes read a proclamation thanking the Stonewall Brigade Band for their 155 years in existence and for their 121 years of free summer performances in Gypsy Hill Park.

Dusk begins to settle over concert-goers during the 8-9:30 performance held every Monday night at Gyspy Hill Park's Gazebo.

Councilwoman Oakes enjoyed the concert from her seat on the lawn.

Even as dark fell, the band played on....

Proclamation
from
Staunton City Council

Whereas, The Stonewall Brigade Band began as the Mountain Saxhorn Band in Staunton, VA in early 1855; and

Whereas, during the outbreak of the War Between the States, the band marched off to war with local militias; and

Whereas, from early 1862, band members served as couriers, guards, stretcher bearers, and surgeon’s assistant; and

Whereas, at the first battle of Manassas, band member William E. Woodward died on the field, and was the was the band’s first casualty and the only death among its members during the way; and

Whereas, the band also performed concerts throughout the state to help recruiting rallies, clothing drives, and war relief fund raising; and

Whereas, when General Jackson earned the nickname “Stonewall”, his brigade became known as the Stonewall Brigade and the band adopted the name “Stonewall Brigade Band”; and

Whereas, band is now in its 155th year of continuous service, and is beginning its 121st season of free concerts in Gypsy Hill Park under the direction of Mr. Bob Moody, in his 34th year as lead conductor of the band, and now assisted by Frank Sampson;

Now, therefore, be it proclaimed that Staunton City Council hereby expresses its appreciation for the many hours of entertainment this fine group of men and women has provided to residents of Staunton and the surrounding communities, and for being such a vital piece of Staunton’s history.

Signed this 1st day of June, 2009.

Lacy B. King, Jr., Mayor

Be sure to attend tonight's free concert under the trees in Gypsy Hill Park from 8-9:30 pm. For the lineup of music, check out the Stonewall Brigade Band's website.

Photos by SWAC Girl
Lynn Mitchell
June 1, 2009