National Monument to the Forefathers

In the heart of Plymouth, Massachusetts, stands a towering tribute to the Pilgrims who braved the Atlantic to seek a new life in America. The National Monument to the Forefathers, once known as the Pilgrim Monument, is a grandiose granite structure that commemorates the ideals and sacrifices of these early settlers. This monument, which is possibly the largest solid granite monument in the world, reaches an impressive height of 24.7 meters (81 feet) and offers visitors a glimpse into the values that shaped the foundation of the United States.

A Brief History

The concept of the National Monument to the Forefathers dates back to around 1820, but it wasn't until 1850 that serious planning began. The Pilgrim Society, dedicated to preserving the memory of the Pilgrims, spearheaded the project. The cornerstone of the monument was laid on August 2, 1859, by the Grand Lodge of Masons in Massachusetts, under the direction of Grand Master John T. Heard. The monument was completed in October 1888 and dedicated on August 1, 1889, in a ceremony that celebrated the enduring legacy of the Pilgrims.

The Vision of Hammatt Billings

The original design of the monument was the brainchild of Hammatt Billings, a Boston-based architect, illustrator, and sculptor. Billings envisioned a colossal structure, akin to the ancient Colossus of Rhodes, standing at 45.7 meters (150 feet). However, before his death in 1874, Billings revised the design to a more modest yet still monumental scale. The project was then taken over by his brother Joseph Billings, along with other notable sculptors such as Alexander Doyle, Carl Conrads, and James Mahoney. The granite for the monument was sourced from a quarry in Hallowell, Maine.

A Symbol of Faith and Principles

At the heart of the monument is a towering figure of Faith, standing at 11 meters (36 feet) tall. This heroic figure, with her right hand pointing towards the heavens and her left hand clutching a Bible, symbolizes the religious convictions that guided the Pilgrims. Surrounding Faith are four seated figures, each representing a principle that the Pilgrims held dear: Morality, Law, Education, and Liberty. These figures are arranged in a counterclockwise direction from the east, each carved from a single block of granite and seated on chairs adorned with high-relief carvings.

The Four Principles

The figure of Morality is flanked by smaller reliefs of a Prophet and an Evangelist, highlighting the Pilgrims' spiritual guidance. Law is accompanied by Justice and Mercy, reflecting the balance of fairness and compassion in their legal system. Education features Youth and Wisdom, emphasizing the importance of learning and knowledge. Lastly, Liberty is depicted with Tyranny Overthrown and Peace, symbolizing the Pilgrims' quest for freedom and tranquility.

Historical Reliefs

Each of the four buttresses of the monument also features high-relief marble panels depicting significant scenes from the Pilgrims' history. Under Morality, the panel titled Embarkation shows the Pilgrims setting sail on their historic journey. The Treaty panel under Law illustrates the agreement made with the Native Americans. Compact, under Education, represents the signing of the Mayflower Compact, a foundational document for self-governance. Lastly, the Landing panel under Liberty captures the moment the Pilgrims first set foot on American soil.

Inscriptions and Dedications

The pedestal of the monument bears inscriptions that pay tribute to the Pilgrims' enduring legacy. The front panel reads: National Monument to the Forefathers. Erected by a grateful people in remembrance of their labors, sacrifices, and sufferings for the cause of civil and religious liberty. The side panels list the names of the passengers who arrived on the Mayflower, while the rear panel, added more recently, features a quote from William Bradford's famous history, Of Plymouth Plantation.

A National Treasure

The National Monument to the Forefathers was added to the National Register of Historic Places on August 30, 1974. Initially maintained by the Pilgrim Society, it was transferred to the state of Massachusetts in 2001. Together with Plymouth Rock, it forms the Pilgrim Memorial State Park, a site of national significance that draws visitors from around the world who wish to honor the spirit and legacy of the Pilgrims.

In 2012, the monument was featured in the film Monumental by Kirk Cameron, which explores the history and values of the Pilgrims. This film brought renewed attention to this magnificent structure and the ideals it represents.

Standing proudly in Plymouth, the National Monument to the Forefathers is more than just a historical marker; it is a testament to the enduring values of faith, morality, law, education, and liberty. A visit to this monument offers a profound connection to the past and a reminder of the principles that continue to shape the United States.