Little drummer boy
This our first cache, and is dedicated to a local hero, John Boulton Young. In 1861, a twelve year old John left his home, family and friends, and enlisted with other volunteers from Sunbury, PA who served in company C, in the 47th regiment. Little John Boulton Young became a regimental drummer, and was outfitted with an undersized non regulation drum, complete with tiny drumsticks, due to his small size. Known affectionately as "Bolty" by his fellow soldiers, he was described as a bright, active boy, and he quickly became a favorite of the whole regiment. His captain had him dressed in Zouave style, and the little Zouave drummer attracted much attention wherever the regiment went.
Bolty received a smallpox vaccination while his company was training at Harrisburg, however unfortunately it proved ineffective in the weeks ahead. Sadly, he contracted smallpox while his company visited an old rebel camp, and the doctor said it was the worst case he had ever seen. His death was the first of the 47th, and a heavy blow to the entire regiment, and captain. His captain wrote to his parents saying "It is with the most profound feelings of sorrow I have ever experienced to announce to you the death of our "pet", and your son....He was the life and light of our company, and his death caused a blight and a sadness to prevail that only the rude wheel of time can efface."
Bolty was interred near this geocache on January 31, 1862 during a service which attracted many. The flags in Sunbury were flown at half staff to mourn the death of the little drummer boy, who died so young in the service of his country. Shortly thereafter his company saved enough money to purchase the monument at his gravesite. In 1994 another, new stone was dedicated in his honor as well. John Boulton Young's outfit and drum are displayed at the Northumberland Historical Society.