Kent County Civil War Monument facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Kent County Civil War Monument
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Kent County Civil War Monument
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 Location in Michigan
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| Location | Grand Rapids, Michigan |
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| Area | 0.2 acres (0.081 ha) |
| Built | 1885 |
| Architect | Monumental Bronze Company |
| Architectural style | cast zinc monument with fountain |
| NRHP reference No. | 04000690 |
| Added to NRHP | July 14, 2004 |
The Kent County Civil War Monument is an important historical landmark. You can find it in a small, triangular park in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan. This monument is special because it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2004. This means it's recognized as a place worth preserving because of its history.
History of the Monument
Plans to build this monument started even before the American Civil War ended in 1865. People began raising money for it. However, the project slowed down for many years.
In 1884, interest in the monument grew again. This was because the Seventeenth Annual Reunion of the Society of the Army of the Cumberland was coming up. More money was raised, and a company called Detroit Bronze Company was hired. They were a part of the Monumental Bronze Company from Bridgeport, Connecticut. Their job was to create the statues for the monument.
The monument was officially dedicated on September 17, 1885, during the reunion. Important people attended the dedication, including Governor Russell A. Alger and General Philip H. Sheridan. The monument has been cared for over the years, with restorations happening in 2003 and again in 2014.
What the Monument Looks Like
The Kent County Civil War Monument is a tall fountain, standing thirty-four feet high. It sits in the middle of a large round basin that is sixteen feet across.
The monument itself has a seven-foot-high base. Above the base are three square sections. At the very top, there is a statue of a Union soldier standing at parade rest.
The monument has many interesting details. You can see eagles, flags, and military equipment carved into it. It also lists the names and dates of different battles from the Civil War.
There are also portraits of famous figures like Abraham Lincoln, Ulysses S. Grant, James Garfield, and Admiral David Farragut. One special part is a carved panel called "Woman's Mission of Mercy." It shows a woman helping a wounded soldier.
You can also find quotes from Lincoln, Grant, Garfield, and Andrew Jackson. There are plaques with the Michigan state seal and the symbol of the Grand Army of the Republic. Like many monuments from that time, this one was made from zinc.
