Columbine Memorial facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Columbine Memorial |
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The Columbine Memorial as it appeared in 2008
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| General information | |
| Status | Open |
| Type | Memorial |
| Coordinates | 39°36′19″N 105°04′43″W / 39.6053°N 105.0787°W |
| Construction started | August 2006 |
| Completed | September 2007 |
| Opening | September 21, 2007 (public) |
| Design and construction | |
| Architect | Victims' families, injured victims, Columbine students, faculty and staff, general public |
The Columbine Memorial is a special place in Columbine, Colorado. It was built to remember and honor everyone affected by the sad events at Columbine High School on April 20, 1999. This includes those who passed away, those who were hurt, survivors, and the brave people who helped.
The memorial is located in Clement Park. This park is right behind Columbine High School. A non-profit group takes care of the memorial. Their job is to make sure it stays a peaceful place for remembrance.
Planning for the memorial started in June 1999. This was about two months after the events. It took three and a half years to design the memorial. Many different groups helped with the design. This included the families most affected and students and staff from the school. The community also shared their ideas.
Over eight years, more than $1.5 million was raised. This money came from donations. The groundbreaking ceremony happened in June 2006. The Columbine Memorial officially opened to the public on September 21, 2007.
Design
The Columbine Memorial has two main parts. These parts help visitors remember and reflect.
Ring of Remembrance
The Ring of Remembrance is the main part of the memorial. It is located in the center. Families of the 13 victims wrote personal messages. These messages are carved into stone. They honor each person who passed away. In the middle of the ring is a special ribbon. It says "Never Forgotten." Kyle Velasquez's parents, Al and Phyllis, designed this ribbon.
Wall of Healing
The Wall of Healing surrounds most of the memorial. It was created to honor many people. This includes everyone who was injured. It also remembers the first responders who helped. The wall also honors all those touched by the events of April 20, 1999.
