Wyoming Monument facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Wyoming Monument
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Wyoming Monument in 2013
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 Location in Pennsylvania
Location in the United States
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| Location | US 11, Wyoming Ave. and Susquehanna Ave., Wyoming, Pennsylvania |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1833 |
| Architect | Walter, Thomas Ustick; et al. |
| Architectural style | Exotic Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 02000509 |
| Added to NRHP | May 13, 2002 |
The Wyoming Monument is a special place in Wyoming, Pennsylvania, in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania. It's a monument and a gravesite that honors those who fought in the American Revolutionary War.
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What is the Wyoming Monument?
This monument marks the burial spot of people who died in a very important event called the Battle of Wyoming. This battle happened on July 3, 1778. The monument helps us remember the brave people who defended their homes.
The Story of the Battle of Wyoming
During the Revolutionary War, local people in Wyoming banded together. They wanted to protect their area from an attack. British soldiers, called Tories, and some Native American groups who supported the British, invaded the area.
The battle was very tough for the colonial fighters. Sadly, they lost the battle. After the fighting, it was not safe to return right away. On October 22, 1778, a group finally felt it was safe enough. They went back to find and collect the bodies of those who had died.
How the Monument Was Built
The remains of the fallen soldiers were gathered and buried together in a shared grave. Many years later, in 1832, these bones were carefully dug up again. This was for a public ceremony. Some people who had survived the battle, now very old, attended this special event.
In 1833, the bones were buried once more. This time, they were placed in a vault right under the monument we see today. The monument was built to honor their sacrifice forever.
Who Takes Care of the Monument?
The Wyoming Monument Association owns and takes care of the monument. This group was first called the Ladies Monumental Association. It is one of the oldest groups in the United States made up only of women, focused on history.
Every year, a special ceremony is held at the monument. This tradition started in 1878, which was 100 years after the battle. The Wyoming Commemorative Association helps organize this yearly event.
Recent History of the Monument
On August 2, 2008, lightning struck the monument. This caused some damage, and repairs were needed. Work to fix and restore the monument began in 2010.
The monument was fully repaired and looked new again. It was celebrated with a special rededication ceremony. This happened on July 4, 2011, during the annual event by the Wyoming Commemorative Association.
Images for kids
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Photo of the Monument around 1910
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Sketch of the Wyoming Monument around 1860
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The monument at night
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The mouth of one of the cannons at the monument
