The Grand Army Band was formed in 1866 in Canton, Ohio, with 15 charter members, including Fred Vogelgesang, Charles Fiala, George, Al O., John and Gus Buckius, John Steurhoff, L. P. D. Yost, Tom Baureiss, John Webb, Jesse Ask, George Nauman, Frank Neupher, Thomas F. Kirk, and Capt. James Day.
All but four of the members were Civil War veterans. Proud of the army that President Abraham Lincoln had called into service, they adopted the name “Grand Army Band” in its honor.
Over the years, the Grand Army Band grew in both size and reputation. In 1874, an octagonal bandstand was erected on Canton’s public square, where the band performed at church events, the County Fair, productions at the Opera House, Fourth of July celebrations, and political gatherings. As its reputation expanded, the Grand Army Band began performing throughout the country. Many people remember the ensemble as “McKinley’s Own” because of its close association with Canton’s most famous son, President William McKinley. The band accompanied McKinley to his nominating conventions, participated in his famous “Front Porch Campaign,” played at both of his inaugurations, and later performed at his funeral.
Learn more about the Grand Army Band through an upcoming performance on July 9 or by exploring resources available through the Family and Local History Department at Stark Library.
ArtsinStark Park - Free and Open to all!
Thursday, July 9, 2026
5:30pm - 8:00pm
Learn more HERE
Sources:
Heald, E.T. compiler, "The Stark County Story Vol II : The McKinley Era", Stark County Historical Society, Canton: OH, 1950.
Heald, E. T. compiler, "The Stark County Story Vol . I: Cities Towns and Villages", Stark County Historical Society, Canton: OH 1950.
