Union Park

The land for "North Side Park" was donated by Manitowoc founder Benjamin Jones. A Victorian bandstand and ornate drinking fountain were once located in the center. <br><br> Following Fort Sumter, April, 1861, volunteers marched and drilled here preparing for service in the Union Army although they were without uniforms, weapons or a flag. On June 17, 1861 ladies from the village of Manitowoc presented the company with a handmade red, white and blue silk flag. Days later the 104 man militia unit left for Camp Randall, Madison where it became Co, A, 5th Wis. Volunteer Infantry Regiment. After 3 years and 26 battles with the Army of the Potomac, only 30 men would return home. <br><br> County support for the Union cause was strong. Businessmen donated money, ladies' groups collected supplies and blankets, and relief funds for indigent soldier families were established. <br><br> The park was renamed "Union Park" to honor the 2467 men from Manitowoc County who fought in the Civil War, 1861 - 65, to preserve the Union.