Veterans Memorial Plaza in Washington Park

Beautiful rustic rendition and dedication to war veterans. Although located right dead smack in the center of Washington Park, it’s a nice little location that I find absolutely great for all history buffs and veterans alike. Feels good to know that the hometown you grew up in, remembers its veterans and service members!

This small plaza is part of Washington Park, but sits right at the intersection of Washington St. and West St. There are 15 minute parking meters along West St., so it is an easy stop to make and pick up a little history.
Dedicated on Veteran’s Day in 2005„ it boast several interesting features. Among them are a 36 inch granite floating globe, a beautiful statue of a WWI dough boy, a statue of Orion Howe, a Civil War drumer boy, who was the youngest soldier to ever receive the US Congressional Medal of Honor. (He was 14 years old!) Also there is the largest bronze sculpture wall flag in the United States.
This plaza is not necessarily a destination, unless you are a history buff, but if you are in the area, it is a serene and educational site to pause and reflect on the sacrifices of other.
It is not exactly the best stop in the dead of winter, especially calf deep in snow, but I’m still glad we came. It was worth it to learn about Orion Howe.