Built in 1877-78, the Peace Monument was formerly known as the Naval Monument and also the Civil Sailors Monument and, as the name suggests, commemorates the many naval deaths at sea during the American Civil War.
This edifice, which has been carved out of pristine white marble, stands 44 feet tall and along with the James A. Garfield Monument and the Ulysses S. Grant Memorial, forms the renowned sculptural trinity, considered by many to be amongst the most noteworthy memorials in the country. The monument depicts two classically robed female figurines, representing History and Grief. Of these, History holds a stylus which is inscribed with the words, 'They died that their country might live', while Grief weeps against her shoulder. Below them stands Victory, who holds a laurel wreath and an oak branch to symbolize strength. The last figurine, which is called Peace, holds an olive spring and is adorned with a number of symbols representing science, literature and art as a token to the progress man has made once peace rules the land.
The monument has been sculpted by the skilled hands of Franklin Simmons, in the idealized neoclassical style and was conceived by Admiral David Dixon Porter, who played a very significant role in the War. Funds poured in from private contributors once the Monument was conceived and the marble pieces were painstakingly shipped into Washington, where the Monument now stands.
A visit to the monument is undoubtedly a unique eyelet into the harmony and the spirit of solidarity that binds the present-day nation together, while an apt tribute to the brave souls who earned this country the freedom it thrives upon today.
The Peace Monument
The Peace Circle,
First Street, N.W., and Pennsylvania Avenue,
Washington, D.C.
