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Governor Horner State Memorial facts for kids

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Governor Horner State Memorial
Governor Henry Horner Memorial Sculpture Front.jpg
Artist John Brcin
Year 1948
Type Granite Monument
Location Horner Park, Chicago

The Governor Horner State Memorial is a special monument made of granite. It honors Henry Horner, who was the thirtieth governor of Illinois. He led the state from 1933 to 1940. This memorial stands in Horner Park in Chicago, Illinois. You can find it at the corner of Montrose Avenue and California Avenue.

The Illinois Historic Preservation Agency takes care of the monument. It is considered an important state historic site. John Brcin designed this monument in 1948. It shows carved pictures, called reliefs, of Horner. These pictures show him during his time as a judge and as governor. The monument was first placed in Grant Park. But in 1956, it was moved to its current spot in Horner Park. This happened when the park's fieldhouse opened.

Who Was Governor Henry Horner?

Henry Horner was a very important leader in Illinois. He served as the state's governor for seven years. A governor is like the main boss of a state. They help make laws and manage how the state runs. Governor Horner was known for his dedication to public service. He worked hard for the people of Illinois.

Horner's Time as Governor

Governor Horner served during a challenging time. He helped guide Illinois through the Great Depression. This was a period when many people faced tough economic times. His leadership was important in helping the state recover. He made decisions that affected many people's lives.

About the Monument

The Governor Horner State Memorial is made from strong granite stone. It was created to remember Governor Horner's contributions. The artist, John Brcin, designed it to show different parts of Horner's life.

Artistic Details

The monument features special carvings called reliefs. These are like pictures carved into the stone. One relief shows Governor Horner when he was a probate judge. This means he handled legal cases about wills and estates. Another relief shows him during his time as governor. These carvings help tell the story of his public life.

Governor Henry Horner Memorial Sculpture Rear
Back side of Governor Horner State Memorial Monument

Location and History

The monument is located in Horner Park, which is named after Governor Horner himself. The park is a popular spot in Chicago. It offers green spaces and places for people to gather.

Moving the Monument

When it was first built in 1948, the monument was in Grant Park. Grant Park is a large, famous park in downtown Chicago. However, in 1956, the monument was moved. It found its permanent home in Horner Park. This move happened when a new building, called a fieldhouse, was opened in Horner Park. The fieldhouse provides facilities for sports and community activities. Placing the monument in Horner Park made sense, as the park honors Governor Horner.

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