History comes alive as Union soldier visits fourth graders

On a memorable day in March, fourth-grade students at Hamilton Heights Elementary School (HHES) were transported back to 1864 as Kevin Stonerock, also known as Billy Yank, visited their classrooms to share fascinating stories from his time as a soldier in the Union Army.

Stonerock, portraying a soldier from an Indiana regiment, captivated the young audience with vivid tales from the Civil War. He spoke of his service in significant battles such as Shiloh and Stones River in Tennessee, recounting the harrowing experiences of marching for miles, facing the brutal realities of war, and the emotional toll of battle.

One of the highlights of Stonerock’s presentation was his discussion on the daily life of a soldier. He explained the hardships of eating rations and the infamous hardtack – a dry, hard biscuit that soldiers often had to dip in water to soften. Students were especially fascinated when Stonerock passed around replicas of the hardtack for them to feel and see, giving them a tangible connection to the past.

In addition to battle stories and hardships faced, Stonerock shared the importance of camaraderie among soldiers and how they relied on one another during difficult times. His engaging storytelling made history come alive for the students, sparking questions and conversations about what life was like during the Civil War.

The visit was part of the school’s ongoing efforts to bring history to life for students and deepen their understanding of American history through interactive learning.

“We are so grateful to have had Kevin Stonerock visit,” HHES fourth-grade teacher Lauren Knapp said. “His enthusiasm and passion for history truly resonated with our students, making this a day they will remember for years to come.”

The presentation, made possible by the Hamilton Heights Educational Foundation, left the fourth graders with a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made by soldiers and the significance of the Civil War in shaping the nation’s history. It was a memorable and educational experience that brought the past to life in a way textbooks alone never could.