By Veronica Fox

The Union County Museum is the recipient of a uniform worn by James Elbert Miller during the Spanish-American War. This article dives into the story of one such uniform’s journey from battlefield to museum display, examining its donation, restoration and place in our museum.

A Brief History Review

The Spanish-American War, a conflict between the United States and Spain in 1898, marked a turning point in American foreign policy. Often viewed as the dawn of the U.S. as a global power, the war was fought over Spanish colonial policies in Cuba, which had ripple effects on other Spanish colonies like Puerto Rico, Guam and the Philippines. American soldiers in this war were part of a volunteer-driven army, their uniforms symbolizing their willingness to fight for principles they deemed crucial: independence, national pride and justice.

Uniforms from the Spanish-American War reflect the diverse backgrounds of the soldiers who fought and the rapidly modernizing military. Standard-issue uniforms often included canvas or woolen khaki clothing that served dual purposes in both tropical and temperate climates, making them unique to this transitional era.

The Donation Process

The soldier, James Elbert Miller, was the great grandson to the Revolutionary War patriot Martin Miller and wife Elizabeth Giddens Miller. The donation of this well-preserved uniform was presented by great grandson, Doug Miller. The exhibit needed a display case and mannequin to continue to preserve the wool uniform.

The museum gratefully received a grant from the Tennessee Society Daughters of the American Revolution (TSDAR) and highlights both the dedication of the family in preserving their heritage, and the TSDAR and the museum’s commitment to honoring the past.

On November 7, 2024, the display items were obtained, and the exhibit was completed for viewing. TSDAR State Regent Emily Robinson and their Grant Coordinator Jill Jones Lazuka traveled to Maynardville and met with Veronica Fox of the Ocoee Chapter of TSDAR (and museum volunteer) and Judson Palmer, Board Chair of the Union County Historical Society (UCHS) to review and approve the exhibit.

A Lasting Legacy in the Museum

The UCHS is excited to say that this Spanish-American War uniform stands proudly in the museum. Please come visit and admire the wonderful piece of American and Union County history. There is no charge to visit the museum.