Lewis Martin's great sacrifice went essentially unnoticed when he returned to Springfield. Unable to find work because of his disability, he became an alcoholic and a victim of discrimination. In 1892, he was found dead in a home on West Jefferson. He had died from excessive alcohol consumption and exposure.
The newspaper reported his drinking as much as his service, saying most of his pension went to local saloon keepers. He was buried in an unmarked grave in the paupers' section of Oak Ridge Cemetery.
Martin's grave was discovered in 2012 by Springfield historian Kathleen Heyworth who came across his name while researching Springfield's Camp Butler, where the 29th USCT passed through.
About 100 people attended the dedication of his new marker. Arnold Monuments of Springfield donated a grave stone and there is an additional marker with the famous photo that was purchased through donations.
An Overdue Honor. --Old Secesh
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