Hayes, who owns the Southern Patriot Store in town, purchased the hill, which is considered the first meeting of secession prior to the Civil War, 14 years ago when it was overgrown with foliage. Jones provided the dedication of the grave and spoke of the importance of continuing to educate people, especially the youth, of the South's Civil War history and that Southerners should not be ashamed of honoring the Confederate dead. Jones left the podium to join the many re-enactors circling the grave and recited "We Drank From the Same Canteen" before sharing his canteen with the unknown soldier, the color guard and Hayes.