Newhall in Santa Clarita in Los Angeles County, California — The American West (Pacific Coastal)
William J. Johnston Jr.
Photographed By Craig Baker, July 18, 2018
1. William J Johnston Jr Marker
Presented the Medal of Honor on September 16, 1863 for gallantry in the Seven Day Battle and Peninsula Campaign.
“Willie” was a five foot tall, eleven year-old drummer boy in Company D, Third Vermont Volunteers Infantry of the Union Army, when he earned the Congressional Medal of Honor. He alone saved his drum and held his ground, and his devotion to duty is an inspiration to children and adults alike. Abraham Lincoln and Secretary of War Stanton honored Willie with the following words:
"For exemplifying the spirit of all our soldiers, and for serving your country so well. The nation has decided to honor you. May all our citizens demonstrate the devotion shown by this young man."
Erected 2005 by Historical Veterans Memorial Committee.
Topics and series. This memorial is listed in these topic lists: Patriots & Patriotism • War, US Civil. In addition, it is included in the Former U.S. Presidents: #16 Abraham Lincoln series list. A significant historical date for this entry is September 16, 1863.
Location. 34° 22.659′ N, 118° 31.721′ W. Marker is in Santa Clarita, California, in Los Angeles County. It is in Newhall. Memorial can be reached from the intersection of Walnut Street and Newhall Avenue, on the left when traveling north
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Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. American Revolution (within shouting distance of this marker); Saugus School Bell (approx. 0.2 miles away); William S. Hart Park and Museum (approx. 0.2 miles away); American Bison (approx. ¼ mile away); Santa Clarita History Bear (approx. 0.3 miles away); Newhall Ranch House (approx. 0.3 miles away); End of an Era (approx. 0.3 miles away); Edison House (approx. 0.4 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Santa Clarita.
Photographed By Craig Baker, July 18, 2018
2. William J Johnston Jr Marker
Photographed By Craig Baker, July 18, 2018
3. William J Johnston Jr Marker
Photographed By Craig Baker, July 18, 2018
4. Veterans Historical Plaza
Credits. This page was last revised on February 7, 2023. It was originally submitted on June 4, 2020, by Craig Baker of Sylmar, California. This page has been viewed 313 times since then and 32 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on June 4, 2020, by Craig Baker of Sylmar, California. • Bernard Fisher was the editor who published this page.
