IONIA, Mich. (WLNS) — A newly restored Michigan historical flag carried by Union soldiers in the Civil War is back on display in Ionia County after spending 159 years inside the county courthouse and a recent preservation in North Carolina.
Members of the Michigan Veterans of Foreign Wars posts organized the restoration of the battle flag, which was used by the 21st Michigan Infantry and had long hung inside the Ionia County Courthouse before it was removed in 2024 for conservation. It has now returned to Ionia.
Dozens gathered at the Ionia Theater to witness the unveiling of the artifact, which organizers say holds a deep connection to the community. Eric Calley of the Lyons VFW post said the flag was handcrafted by the “Ladies of Ionia,” mothers of soldiers who served in the 21st Michigan Infantry during the war…