A new headstone was recently placed on the grave of a local man, William Barklage, who served with the eastern Missouri militia during the Civil War and was killed Sept. 10, 1863 in a skirmish with a band of Southern guerrillas, known as bushwhackers, west of Wright City.
While attending a public sale at Capt. Rethorst’s residence, the militia and several citizens organized after learning that Confederate guerrillas were camped nearby, according to a press release about the new headstone. The group tracked the guerrillas to a brushy area in a large corn field near the railroad crossing at Highway H. William Barklage was at the front of the party when the guerrillas opened fire, killing him instantly.
The next day, in retaliation for Barklages’s death, the militia descended on Wright City to seek out those who had aided the Confederate guerillas. During the “Wright City Raid,” the Baptist Church, the blacksmith shop, and tavern were burned, according to the release. William Barklage was buried in Harmonie Cemetery on Stracks Church Road, where a rock marked his otherwise unmarked grave.
Descendants of William Barklage felt that a proper headstone should be placed to honor his service. On Sunday, Oct. 18 a dedication program was held to commemorate the placement of a new stone for William Barklage in the Harmonie Cemetery. Rev. Dr. Kim Purl gave reflections and prayers for the occasion; grandchildren of Mr. Barklage also took part in the program with the retelling of William’s biography, leading the Pledge of Allegiance and the singing of Battle Hymn of the Republic. The program concluded with a gun salute and the playing of “Taps” by the Honor Guard of American Legion Daniel Boone Post 180 of Marthasville.
Organizers were grateful for all who took part in this meaningful dedication of a proper headstone for a local man who deserved to be remembered, they said in the release.
