Casimir Pulaski Monument (Savannah, Georgia) facts for kids
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The Casimir Pulaski Monument in Savannah, Georgia is a special statue that honors a brave hero named Casimir Pulaski. He was a Polish general who fought for American freedom during the American Revolutionary War. This monument stands tall in Monterey Square, right on Bull Street. It's not far from where Pulaski bravely fought and was hurt during the siege of Savannah in 1779.
This monument is one of only two in Savannah that still has a protective railing around it. The other one is the Civil War Memorial in Forsyth Park.
The Story Behind the Pulaski Monument
The idea for a monument to Pulaski started a long time ago. A special first stone, called a cornerstone, was laid. Some records say this happened in 1825. A famous French general, Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette, was even there. Other records point to 1853 for the cornerstone.
It seems the first cornerstone was placed in Chippewa Square. But there wasn't enough money to build the monument then. In 1853, the cornerstone was moved to Monterey Square. This is where the monument would finally be built.
Construction began after about $17,000 was raised. The cornerstone was officially relaid on October 11, 1853. This date was important because it was the anniversary of Pulaski's death. The monument was then unveiled in 1856, or perhaps dedicated on January 9, 1855. People at the time thought it was one of the most beautiful memorials in America.
A body believed to be Pulaski's was buried inside the monument. Recent scientific tests have confirmed that it was indeed Pulaski's body.
The United States Congress wanted a monument for Pulaski very early on. They passed a resolution on October 29, 1779. This was just days after Pulaski passed away. The Savannah monument, built over 50 years later, was the very first one in the United States dedicated to him.
Work to restore the monument began in 1995.
What Does the Monument Look Like?
The Pulaski Monument is made from beautiful Italian marble. It also has smaller parts made of granite. It stands very tall, about 55 feet (17 m) high.
At the base, there is a bronze bas relief. This is a type of sculpture that sticks out from a flat surface. It shows Pulaski riding his horse. The very top of the monument has a statue of Liberty. She holds the stars and stripes banner.
Robert Launitz designed the overall monument. The bronze bas relief was created by Henryk Dmochowski. It shows the moment Pulaski was hurt in battle. You can also see the coat of arms of Poland and the coat of arms of Georgia on the monument.
A special message is carved into the monument. It says: "Pulaski, the Heroic Pole, who fell mortally wounded, fighting for American Liberty at the siege of Savannah, October 9, 1779." This reminds everyone of his bravery.
See also
In Spanish: Monumento a Casimir Pulaski (Savannah) para niños
