Mormon Battalion Monument facts for kids
The Mormon Battalion Monument is a special bronze statue found in Presidio Park in San Diego, California. It shows a typical member of the Mormon Battalion. This was a group of soldiers from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who served in the United States Army during the Mexican–American War (1846–1848).
Quick facts for kids Mormon Battalion Monument |
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| Artist | Edward J. Fraughton |
| Year | 1969 |
| Subject | Mormon Battalion, Mexican–American War |
| Dimensions | 2.9 m (9.5 ft) |
| Location | San Diego, California |
| Owner | City of San Diego |
Contents
A Look Back: The Monument's Story
How the Statue Was Made
The idea for this statue came from a group called the Sons of Utah Pioneers. They wanted to give it as a gift to the City of San Diego. Building the statue cost about $18,000. A talented sculptor from Utah, Edward J. Fraughton, designed it. The actual statue was made in Italy.
The Dedication Ceremony
The monument was officially revealed on November 22, 1969. About 200 members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the Sons of Utah Pioneers attended.
Hugh B. Brown, a leader in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, gave a speech. He was also the grandson of a Mormon Battalion veteran. He reminded everyone that Brigham Young, who was the second president of the Church, had praised the battalion.
Important leaders also sent their good wishes. Messages were read from then-President of the United States, Richard Nixon, California Governor Ronald Reagan, and Utah Governor Cal Rampton. The event ended with a concert by the United States Marine Band.
What the Statue Looks Like
A Detailed Description
The Smithsonian American Art Museum has a description of the statue. It shows a male soldier, called an infantryman, standing tall. He wears a western-style hat and moccasin shoes.
In his left hand, he holds a Book of Mormon. Over his right shoulder, he carries a rifle. He also has a canteen slung across his chest. On his back, he wears a backpack with a bedroll. A Bible is tucked into a pocket on his backpack. The soldier is shown stepping forward with his left leg.
The Sculptor's Vision
Edward J. Fraughton, the artist, described his creation. He said the soldier is "a man of power and strength, maturity and youth." Fraughton also noted that the soldier is not focused on himself. Instead, he is "looking into the future."
