10 Of The Most Inspiring Monuments And Memorials That Illinois Has To Offer
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Elizabeth Crozier
Author
Inspiration can be found all throughout the Land of Lincoln. From war memorials to cultural statues, these 10 inspiring monuments in Illinois will give you something to think about.
Sometimes, the best way to remember our history is to display it for all to see. Scroll on to check out these amazing pieces of art.
One of the most unique roadside attractions in the state, this local memorial to pop culture and all things concerning the 1960s through the 1980s is a time capsule of our nation's history. It is an eccentric passion project that has a very interesting past. Learn all about it from previous coverage here.
This incredible statue is just one of 12 inspiring monuments in the United States that are dedicated to remembering the spirit of the pioneer women who helped explore America. The statue depicts a mixture of strength, love, and courage, and it has become a symbol of local pride. Dedicated in October 1928, this memorial is located at 399 W Gallatin St., Vandalia, IL 62471.
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Erected in 1938, this unique sculpture represents a poor 21-year-old Abraham Lincoln crossing the border from Indiana into Illinois where he would later become a lawyer and our nation's 16th president. It is located near the spot where it is believed he and his family actually crossed, and you can find it in Lawrenceville along the Ohio River.
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Nothing is more humbling than a war memorial. This one commemorates the 22,000 who died and the 987,000 who served in the war who were residents of the state. This monument is inspiring and eye-opening due to its design. Find it at 1441 Monument Ave., Springfield, IL 62702.
This two-acre garden is located at a Mormon church in western Illinois, and it features 12 different statues that depict the roles of women. From caring for children to creating art, the set of monuments inspire girls to be whatever they want. It is located in the town of Nauvoo along Young Street with entrances on Partridge and Main streets.
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While there are many inspiring monuments about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in the world, this one in Chicago belongs at the top of your bucket list. This historical landmark has been in place since 2016, and it commemorates King's 1966 march through the city's Marquette Park. This beautiful work of art can be found at 3201-3221 W Marquette Rd., Chicago, IL 60629.
Spanning more than 126 feet, this giant statue was dedicated in 1922 and is situated in Chicago's Washington Park neighborhood. The structure marks 100 years of peace between the United States and the United Kingdom, and it depicts figures passing in front of Father Time. It is located at 6000 S Cottage Grove Ave., Chicago, IL 60637.
Dedicated in 1996, this 12-foot bronze bell sits in the Oak Ridge Cemetery in honor of the 1,700 Illinoisans who died in Korea. It depicts figures of soldiers from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines. It is awe-inspiring to see these timeless statues. The monument is located at W Oak Ridge St., Springfield, IL 62702.
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Dedicated in 1988, this is a memorial to the more than 3,000 Illinoisans who died or went missing in Vietnam. It includes the names of each person as well as flames for each branch of the military. Vigils and memorial services are held here each year. It is located at 1500 Monument Ave., W Oak Ridge St, Springfield, IL 62702.
This incredible memorial is dedicated to a man who advocated for free speech and the abolition of slavery in the 1830s. He was killed defending his press from pro-slavery attackers after moving it from St. Louis to the free state of Illinois in hopes of avoiding ruin. Find the statue at 1205 E 5th St., Alton, IL 62002.
For more history, check out these 12 marvelous landmarks in Illinois that everyone must visit.
What other inspiring monuments do you like to visit in Illinois? Share your favorites with us below in the comments.
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