Honoring Fallen War of 1812 Soldier Ansel Holcomb: New Gravestone to Be Installed at Boquet Cemetery After 210 Years
Elizabethtown, NY, May 12, 2026 — A long-overdue honor will soon be restored to a local War of 1812 soldier who gave his life during the Battle of Plattsburgh. Private Ansel Holcomb, a member of Captain Calkin’s Company, was wounded during the battle on September 11, 1814 and succumbed to his injuries on September 13. Despite his sacrifice, Holcomb’s gravestone at Boquet Cemetery in New Russia, New York has been missing for generations—either never installed or lost over time.
Holcomb was one of two local soldiers from Captain Calkin’s Company killed in action during the Battle of Plattsburgh. Private Isaac B. Toms fell on September 11, 1814, while Holcomb died shortly after from his wounds. Both men are recognized as local heroes whose service helped secure one of the most decisive American victories of the War of 1812.
For the past six years, Maggie Bartley, Director of the Elizabethtown Museum, has worked persistently with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs in an effort to secure a government-issued replacement gravestone for Holcomb. Despite extensive documentation and repeated submissions, the request has not been approved.
In response, Boquet Valley American Legion Post 551 has stepped forward to ensure Holcomb receives the recognition he deserves. Legion member Newman Tryon has personally purchased a new gravestone—valued at $1,400—from J.C. Memorials of Ellenburg Center. Community members wishing to contribute toward the cost of the gravestone or support the September ceremony may contact Post 551 directly.
The new gravestone will be placed before Memorial Day beside the Holcomb family plot, where seven to eight Holcomb relatives are already interred. A formal commemorative ceremony is planned for September, honoring both Ansel Holcomb and Isaac B. Toms, as well as all local soldiers who fought in the Battle of Plattsburgh.
“This is more than a marker,” said members of Post 551. “It is a promise that our community remembers the men who stood in defense of our nation over two centuries ago. Their sacrifice will not be forgotten.”
Further details about the September ceremony will be announced in the coming months.
Posted: May 13th, 2026 under Adirondack Region News, America 250 Events, Community Events, General News, Northern NY News, Peru/Regional History, Veterans' News.