Ascension : Notes from the Heritage Society
Submitted by The Islander (Islander Internet Editor) 12.06.2008 (Article Archived on 26.06.2008)

On June 2, 2008, the Ascension Island Heritage Society held a memorial and wreath-laying service in Bonetta Cemetery on behalf of the USS Constellation Museum in Baltimore, Maryland.

On June 2, 2008, the Ascension Island Heritage Society held a memorial and wreath-laying service in Bonetta Cemetery on behalf of the USS Constellation Museum in Baltimore, Maryland.  2008 is the bicentennial of the abolition of the slave trade in the United States, and throughout this year, the USS Constellation Museum is honouring its fallen crewmen by having wreaths laid at their burial sites around the world.  The USS Constellation was a Navy ship engaged in the fight to end the West African Slave Trade.  Stephen Bayard Wilson, Jr., was a member of its crew.  He died at sea on June 2, 1861, after contracting Yellow Fever, and was buried several days later on Ascension Island.  He was nineteen years old.  His story is in the News from the Grotto this week.

The service began in the evening with a procession from the Comfortless Cove parking area to the cemetery, led by Major Robert Light carrying the wreath, and TSgt. Steven Beach carrying the flag of the United States of America.  At the graveside, the service began with an opening prayer by the Administrator of Ascension Island, H.H. Michael Hill.  Scripture readings and prayers followed, read by Edward Kerslake, Sue McFall and Neil McFall, members of the Ascension Island Heritage Society.  A biography prepared by the USS Constellation Museum about Stephen Bayard Wilson, Jr. was read by Shari Parkhill, Chairman of the Heritage Society.

The American flag was erected at the graveside by TSgt. Beach, followed by a closing prayer and the laying of the wreath by Major Light.  The service was also attended by members of the public and the girls of the 1^st Ascension Brownie Guides.  The girls have been working on their “Culture” Badge, which has included learning about the history of Ascension.  This was a good example of the diverse history of this remote island.

While the flag will stay at the grave, the wreath has been moved to the Rogers Room of the Museum, and is displayed along with the story of the young man in whose honour it was laid.  It was felt that this was more appropriate as the elements on Ascension would take their toll too quickly on this lovely tribute to his life.  The Ascension Heritage Society invites all islanders to visit the museum and see not only this latest addition to the exhibits, but all of the wonderful displays that represent the history of this special island.