Union soldier's remains were forgotten. Now, they rest in a Rhode Island cemetery

The cremains of Civil War Union soldier and Pawtucket, Rhode Island, native Byron R. Johnson were laid to rest on Wednesday, more than a century after his death. The burial marked one of the final Civil War soldier interments in the United States, offering a unique opportunity to honor the historic moment. “It’s special to begin with -- to have someone who served in this war and his cremains coming back. It’s very unique,” Pawtucket Mayor Donald Grebien said. -- Article

Rhode Island city to improve access to general's grave

Gen. Greene

Officials in a Rhode Island city are embarking on a project to improve access to the grave of Civil War Brig. Gen. George Sears Greene. Greene, a cousin to Revolutionary War hero Gen. Nathanael Greene, is known for helping win the Battle of Gettysburg for the Union Army despite being more than 60 years old. The Providence Journal reports Warwick Mayor Joseph Solomon's office says the cemetery where Greene is buried will see a series of improvements, including adding a multi-tier staircase with handrails, interpretive signage panels and benches. • Article

Cannons used for training back on display

A pair of rare Civil War cannons has been returned to the mansion of a wartime Rhode Island governor. Local officials and the Rhode Island National Guard are gathering Tuesday at the Sprague Mansion in Cranston to mark the return. • Article