The monument at the memorial.

Bricks purchased from people in memory of their loved ones who farmed in Christian County

Despite warm weather, the east side of the Christian County Courthouse lawn was over flowing with people on Saturday morning who were anxiously awaiting the unveiling of the Christian County Farmer's Memorial.

Veteran Farm Broadcaster, Stu Ellis, kicked off opening ceremonies by welcoming everyone to the event and introducing the Capital Area Big Band who led the crowd with the Pledge of Allegiance. There were many farmers who came to the dedication both young and old. Garrett Stephens who works on his family farm was in attendance: 

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Project initiator, John Curtin, said the location of the Farmer's Memorial was selected because of the oak tree that is planted there that came from Abraham Lincoln's Home in 2006. He stated that Lincoln's footprints are all over the Christian County Courthouse lawn. Lincoln was very instrumental with farming in Christian County.

Ed Downs, Vice President of Taylorville Main Street, said the goal of their organization is to preserve the well being of the Taylorville Historic District. He told the audience that there is additional room for more engraved bricks on the newly erected Farmer's Memorial. 

Illinois Director of Agriculture, Bob Flider, was another guest speaker. He said Illinois is the number one food processing state. And, that farming is the number one industry in Illinois. Flider said we must remember where we came from and continue to preserve our family farms. Janet Declerk, a local farmer in Christian County, explained how long her family has been involved in farming: 

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The ceremony concluded with the much anticipated unveiling of the Christian County Farmer's Memorial.

Illinois Director of Agriculture Bob Flider giving his speech.