An iconic image of a Civil War veteran, The Empty Sleeve symbolizes the bravery and sacrifice of the many soldiers who suffered amputations during the war. Shawn Gray will share his collection of artifacts relating to John Koster, the subject of “The Empty Sleeve” and a North Country resident. The North Country Civil War Roundtable is part of the St. Lawrence County Historical Association’s Commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, which was fought from 1861-1865. (Engraving of “The Empty Sleeve” drawn by Miss A. R. Sawyer and engraved by J.C. Buttre, 1866; courtesy of Carl Stickney.)

CANTON – “The Empty Sleeve” is the subject of the next SLCHA Civil War Roundtable on Sunday, Feb. 23 at 2 p.m. at the Silas Wright House, 3 East Main St. Shawn Gray will tell the story of Civil War veteran Major John Koster, the real life model for the photo.

The North Country Civil War Roundtable is part of the St. Lawrence County Historical Association’s Commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, which was fought from 1861-1865. Gray, who lives in Massena, is a graduate of LeMoyne College with a degree in history and political science.

Gray served as a St. Lawrence County Legislator for 13 years, retired from the Village of Massena Fire Department, and is an avid Civil War buff. For information, contact 386-8133 or info@slcha.org.