State Soldiers & Sailors Monument , 1888
1 Monument Cir, Indianapolis, IN 46204
Architect/Designer: Bruno Schmitz
Renovation/Restoration Architect: Schmidt Associates, Inc.
Restoration Architect: Ratio Design
Description:
The monument is structured in various layers, the base of which is accessible by flights of stairs on the north and south sides with water features on the east and west sides. The entrance to the monument is accessible within the pedestal of the structure. Flanking the pedestal on the east and west sides, are groups of sculptured figures on separate but attached pedestals, one group representing War, the other Peace. On the north and south sides of the pedestal are rolls of honor guarded by statues of infantry, cavalry, artilleryman and a sailor. The Soldiers and Sailors Monument was designed to honor veterans of the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, the Mexican War, the Civil War, the Frontier Wars and the Spanish-American War. The monument features statues and symbolism that transcends time in order to encompass and honor the wide range of military history. The monument stands 284 feet and visitors are welcome to climb the 331 steps to enjoy the sweeping views of Indianapolis.
Significance Statement – including special status and awards won:
The Soldiers and Sailors Monument is the first monument in the U.S. to be dedicated to the common soldier and sailor. Indianapolis is second only to Washington D.C. in its collection of war memorials and the Soldiers and Sailors monument is the largest memorial in Indianapolis. The State Soldiers and Sailors Monument is located in the center of Indianapolis and almost at the geographic center of the State. The monument is the focal point and symbol of the city, creating the center of Monument Circle.
Designation status:
National Register of Historic Places, 1972
Washington Street-Monument Circle National Register Historic District, 1997
Monument Circle Local Historic District, 2013
Style: Neo-Classical
Owner (past/present):
State of Indiana
Materials:
Indiana Limestone
Bronze detailing and statuary
Additions and/or changes with date: 1894: Original fountain replaced with larger ones, candelabra added to pedestal
Historic use/current use: War memorial
Is building open to the public?: Yes
Condition: Excellent
Website and/or sources of information:
Website: http://www.in.gov/iwm/2335.htm
Research Sources:
Indiana Government. “Colonel Eli Lilly Civil War Museum.” Accessed September 17, 2015. http://www.in.gov/iwm/2335.htm.
National Register of Historic Places, Soldiers & Sailors Monument, Indianapolis, Marion, Indiana. 1972
