On October 11, eighth graders in Aaron Clark’s social studies classes “went back in time” as they listened to guest speaker Nora Sands and her stories of the Civil War. These weren’t just stories, but actual accounts of the war from her great-great grandfather, Lyman Dean. Mrs. Sands is a past graduate of Byron-Bergen High School and her family has kept this Civil War memorabilia in the family for decades, thanks to the first family historian and daughter of Mr. Dean, “Aunt Clara.”
During the classroom presentation, Mrs. Sands periodically asked the students questions and welcomed any questions they had. The students were quick to note that the key event which started the Civil War was the battle at Fort Sumter in April 1861. Mrs. Sands brought in a collection of Civil War items and memorabilia including a knife and fork used by Mr. Dean during his three year stint of duty, his canteen, an album with letters written by Mr. Dean and other family members, family portraits, and a map showing the route that was taken by the Army of the Potomac, the branch of the Union Army in which Mr. Dean served.
Mr. Dean was a farmer in Randolph, New York, enlisted in the union army at the age of 38, and did his training in Elmira, New York. He became part of the 64th NY Regiment and in mid-November, his regiment headed south where they spent the winter in Washington. Mr. Dean was promoted to Sergeant and was able to receive an increase in pay of $19 per month. There were many skirmishes along the Civil War route from 1861-1864 and many deaths. The 64th was almost annihilated but Mr. Dean survived and lived another 25 years after the war.
Mrs. Sands is a retired math teacher and is an active volunteer in the community.
