Casimir Pulaski Monument (Savannah, Georgia) facts for kids
The Casimir Pulaski Monument in Savannah, Georgia, is a special memorial. It honors Casimir Pulaski, a brave hero who fought for American freedom. You can find this monument in Monterey Square, on Bull Street. It's not far from where Pulaski was hurt during the siege of Savannah.
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Building a Monument for a Hero
People wanted to honor Casimir Pulaski for a long time. The United States Congress decided a monument should be built for him in 1779. This was the same year Pulaski died. The Savannah monument was the very first one built for him in the United States. It took over 50 years to finally build it!
When Was It Built?
The first stone for the monument was laid either in 1825 or 1853. Some say Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette was there in 1825. This first stone was at Chippewa Square. But there wasn't enough money to build the monument then.
In 1853, the stone was moved to Monterey Square. This is where the monument stands today. Building started after about $17,000 was raised. The first stone was put in place again on October 11, 1853. This date was the anniversary of Pulaski's death.
The monument was officially shown to the public in 1856. Another source says it was dedicated on January 9, 1855. People at the time thought it was "one of the most elegant memorials in America."
Pulaski's Burial Site
A body believed to be Pulaski's was buried inside the monument. Recent tests have shown that it really was Pulaski's body.
Keeping It New
Work to fix up the monument began in 1995. This helps keep it looking good for everyone to see.
What the Monument Looks Like
The monument is made from beautiful Italian marble. It also has smaller parts made of granite. It stands about 55 feet (17 m) tall, which is like a five-story building!
Special Details
The monument has a bronze bas relief. This is a type of sculpture that sticks out from a flat surface. It shows Pulaski on a horse. On top of the monument is a statue of Liberty. She holds a stars and stripes banner.
The monument was designed by Robert Launitz. The bas relief was designed by Henryk Dmochowski. It shows the moment Pulaski was hurt. You can also see the coat of arms of Poland and the coat of arms of Georgia on the monument.
The Inscription
A 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 tells us why Pulaski is remembered.
Images for kids
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Casimir Pulaski monument in Savannah, Georgia.
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A historical marker for the Pulaski monument on Monterey Square in Savannah, Georgia.
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See also
In Spanish: Monumento a Casimir Pulaski (Savannah) para niños
