News

The Akron Municipal Court and Mount Peace Cemetery will co-host a socially distant in-person tribute on Monday, November 9, 2020 beginning at 2:00 p.m. for Civil War Veteran Alvin C. Smith. Smith, who passed away in 1948 at age 104, was Summit County’s last living Civil War Veteran.

Members of the press and public are welcome to attend to the event taking place at Mount Peace Cemetery located at 183 Aqueduct Street in Akron.

Smith escaped slavery and joined the Union Army by enlisting in the 27th Colored Infantry. Smith’s incredible journey eventually brought him to Akron, where he worked as a plasterer and participated in parades as a war veteran.

Two speakers are on the agenda for the ceremony:

• Akron Municipal Court Probation Officer Dennis Parks who will tell the story of Veteran Alvin C. Smith
• United States Navy Veteran and Akron Municipal Court Magistrate Jennifer D. Towell who will discuss what it means to be a Veteran

The event will take place outdoors and attendees will be required to wear facial coverings. Social distancing will take place to ensure the safety of all attendees. Extra masks and hand sanitizer will be available.

“This week we honor all United States Veterans for their service. This is an incredible opportunity to honor a Civil War Veteran,” said Akron Municipal Court Judge Jerry Larson who also presides over the Valor Court, a specialized Veteran’s treatment docket. “Mr. Smith’s legacy is unique and I am proud we can bring attention to his service to our country.” 

The event will take place in Section 25 of the cemetery. Guests are encouraged to drive their vehicle and enter the venue at the end of the cemetery and look for a display with a table and American flags. Vehicles can be parked in a line along the paved road near the display. 

Any questions related to the event should be directed to the Court’s Community Outreach and Grants Coordinator Nicole Hagy at (330) 375-2186 or NHagy@akronohio.gov.

Judge Jerry Larson

Magistrate Jennifer D. Towell

Probation Officer Dennis Parks