Thayer Monument facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Thayer Monument |
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| United States | |
Thayer monument at West Point
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| For Sylvanus Thayer | |
| Unveiled | June 11, 1883 |
| Location | 41°23′37″N 073°57′32″W / 41.39361°N 73.95889°W near |
| Designed by | Carl Conrads |
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"Colonel Thayer: Father of the Military Academy"
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The Thayer Monument is a special statue at the United States Military Academy, often called West Point. It honors Sylvanus Thayer, a very important person in the history of West Point. People call him the "Father of the Military Academy." This is because he made big changes that shaped the school into what it is today. The monument is made of white granite and shows a statue of Thayer. It was designed by a sculptor named Carl Conrads. The monument was first shown to the public on June 11, 1883.
Honoring a Leader
Sylvanus Thayer was a superintendent at West Point. A superintendent is like the principal or head of a school. He led the academy in its early years. Thayer made many improvements to the school's teaching and rules. His changes had a lasting impact on how the academy worked. Because of his great work, he earned the nickname "Father of the Military Academy." The monument's inscription, or words carved into it, say: "Colonel Thayer: Father of the Military Academy."
Where to Find the Monument
The Thayer Monument has been in a few different spots over the years. When it was first put up, it stood at the southwest corner of an area called the Plain. The Plain is a large, open field at West Point. Today, the monument sits at a different location. You can find it where Washington and Jefferson roads meet. It is also next to the "Beat Navy" tunnel. This spot is on the northwest corner of the Plain.
Special Ceremonies
The Thayer Monument is a place where many special events happen each year. West Point graduates often come back for reunions. During these reunions, they hold a parade and a memorial service at the monument. There is a special tradition that takes place here. The oldest living graduate from the senior reunion class will lay a wreath at the statue. A wreath is a circle of flowers or leaves, often used to show respect. This tradition honors Thayer's memory and his importance to West Point.
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The Thayer statue at sunset.
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The monument in early spring.
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The monument's original location in front of the old gymnasium.
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The monument in its original spot around the year 1900.
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