Civil War Memorial

Nestled in the heart of Memorial Park in Adrian, Michigan, the Civil War Memorial stands as a poignant tribute to the brave soldiers who gave their lives during the American Civil War. This marble monument, which has been a designated Michigan Historic Site since 1971 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1972, is a testament to the enduring memory of those who fought for the Union from 1861 to 1865.

The Origins of the Civil War Memorial

The story of the Civil War Memorial is one of historical preservation and commemoration. The monument’s central feature, a towering marble column, originally graced the facade of the old Bank of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. Constructed in 1799, the bank was an early example of neoclassical architecture in the United States. When the building was demolished in 1867, one of its six columns was salvaged and transported to Adrian through the efforts of Congressman F. C. Beeaman and J. Fred Myers, a prominent citizen of Adrian. With the approval of Congress and the donation from Hugh McCulloch, then Secretary of the Treasury, this column found new purpose as a memorial to the fallen soldiers of Adrian.

Architectural Design and Symbolism

The design of the Civil War Memorial was conceived by Francis R. Stebbins, a local architect from Adrian, Michigan. The column, originally crafted by the renowned architect and sculptor Benjamin H. Latrobe, rests on an octagonal sandstone pedestal. Each side of the pedestal is adorned with bronze plaques inscribed with the names of 84 fallen soldiers and their respective regiments. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that the sacrifices of these individuals are forever etched in the annals of history.

Crowning the column is a sandstone urn, symbolizing the eternal memory of the soldiers. The base of the pedestal bears a solemn inscription: 1870. Erected by citizens of Adrian in memory of our fallen soldiers. By such, our Union was saved in the great struggle of 1861-1865.

The Dedication Ceremony

The Civil War Memorial was officially dedicated on July 4, 1870, by the Soldiers' Monument Association of Adrian. This grand event drew citizens from all walks of life, eager to pay their respects to the soldiers who had made the ultimate sacrifice. The monument was the second of its kind in Lenawee County, following a cemetery monument in the nearby township of Franklin. The dedication ceremony was a moment of collective remembrance and gratitude, solidifying the memorial’s place in the community’s heart.

The Cannons of Memorial Park

Complementing the Civil War Memorial are four cannons, two of which bear the markings of the Columbia Foundry in Georgetown, north of Washington, D.C. These cannons, cast in 1834, were part of an experimental series, with only three ever produced. The remaining two cannons are unmarked, adding an element of mystery to their origins. The cannons were donated to the Soldiers' Monument Association by a joint resolution of Congress in 1870, further enhancing the historical significance of the memorial site.

The marked cannons are inscribed with U.S. on the top, indicating their use by the United States military. The weight of each cannon is etched on the rear of the breech, along with the initials WJW, representing Colonel William Jenkins Worth, the inspector of all foundries in the D.C. area at the time. The cannons are also marked with numbers, with the experimental series including cannons #2 and #3. The whereabouts of cannon #1 remain unknown, adding an intriguing layer to the memorial’s history.

A Place of Reflection and Education

Today, the Civil War Memorial in Adrian serves as a place of reflection and education for visitors of all ages. The serene surroundings of Memorial Park provide a peaceful backdrop for contemplation, while the monument itself stands as a powerful reminder of the cost of war and the valor of those who fought to preserve the Union. The memorial is not only a tribute to the past but also a beacon of historical knowledge, offering insights into the architectural and cultural heritage of the United States.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, a student, or simply a visitor passing through Adrian, the Civil War Memorial invites you to pause and honor the legacy of the soldiers who fought and died during one of the most tumultuous periods in American history. The monument’s enduring presence in Memorial Park ensures that the stories of bravery and sacrifice will continue to inspire future generations.