History of Honor Roll Park

Glen Carbon has always honored its veterans.

World War I

On May 17, 1922 a committee of 10 Glen Carbon residents: Mr. & Mrs. John Thomas Sr., William Summers, Charles Demmrich, Alva Strong, John Krotz, Mrs. Myrtle Titter, Mrs. Francis Smith, Mrs. Ethel Evans, and Mrs. Florence Ingels, presented the Village of Glen Carbon a monument to be erected in the village cemetery to honor those who lost their lives in World War I. The committee raised $1,045.86 from a carnival, a dance, and donations from organizations, unions, and citizens.

Memorial located in Glen Carbon Cemetery

The monument, currently located in the Glen Carbon City Cemetery, was erected to commemorate two local soldiers - Harry G. Seaton (1895-1919) and Emil Trentaz (1889-1919) - who sacrificed their lives in World War I.

World War II

During the war, the citizens of Glen Carbon raised money to erect an honor roll for those serving
in World War II. The memorial, designed by William Rasplica Jr., supported by three brick pillars, contained the names (carved in wood) of 182 service personnel. The names included men and women, who either resided nearby or were born in Glen Carbon, however they may have resided elsewhere when they entered the armed forces. Several hundred residents were present for the dedication of the War Honor Roll on October 15, 1944.

On December 28, 1944, Sophie Lawson donated the land in memory of her late husband Merton “Kelly” Lawson, so that Glen Carbon would have a place to honor all those who have served or are now serving their country.

Honor Roll Park circa 1943

Honor Roll Park circa 1947

Sadly, over the course of time, the wood plaques have deteriorated. In 1948, a severe storm damaged the Honor Roll Memorial. LeRoy Harris and William Rasplica Jr. rebuilt the memorial replacing the vases with cannon balls. The wood plaques were never replaced; instead wrought
iron was used to connect the three brick columns.

The three Commemorative plaques that adorn the Honor Roll Park Monument