Pennsylvania Memorial facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Pennsylvania Memorial |
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| Pennsylvania Monuments Commission | |
| For troops from Pennsylvania who served in the Great War among whom were the liberators of Varennes 1918 | |
| Unveiled | 1927 |
| Location | 49°13′35″N 5°01′52″E / 49.22626°N 5.03124°E near Varennes-en-Argonne, France
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| Designed by | Paul Philippe Cret Thomas H. Atherton |
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In honor of her troops who served in the Great War among whom were the liberators of Varennes 1918 and in grateful appreciation of their service this memorial is erected by the State of Pennsylvania 1927.
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The Pennsylvania Memorial is a special monument in Varennes-en-Argonne, France. It honors brave volunteers from Pennsylvania, USA, who fought in World War I, also known as the First World War. This memorial was built in a style similar to ancient Greek buildings.
From its viewing platform, you can see the beautiful Aire valley. Architects Thomas H. Atherton and Paul Philippe Cret designed this important monument. The State of Pennsylvania built it in 1927 to remember its soldiers.
What Does the Memorial Look Like?
The Pennsylvania Memorial stands on land where an old castle and a church once stood. These older buildings were destroyed a long time ago, between 1640 and 1642. The memorial itself is made from stone and white marble. It has a classic, elegant look, known as neoclassical style.
Special Features of the Design
The monument features two rows of square columns, called peristyles. These columns surround an open area known as an esplanade. In the middle of this area, there is a stand, or pedestal. On top of the pedestal rests a bronze bowl, which is supported by a three-legged stand called a tripod.
The tripod is decorated with carvings of Greek soldiers. On the bronze bowl, you can read a famous quote from former United States President Woodrow Wilson. It says: "The right is more precious than peace." Carved lion heads can be seen at the base of the bowl. You can also admire large, upright swords carved into the last columns of the monument. Many sculptures on the memorial remind visitors of ancient Greek art.
