Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument: Honoring Indiana’s Fallen

One of the single-most recognized landmarks within Indianapolis and the state of Indiana, the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument commemorates Indiana’s war heroes who died serving in wars before World War I. Standing for over 100 years, the monument was erected and dedicated in 1902. The Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument serves as a memorial to the soldiers and sailors who fought in the American Revolution, the Mexican-American War, the U.S. Civil War, and the Spanish-American War.

The Soldiers and Sailors Monument is located within Monument Circle in the heart of downtown Indianapolis. Constructed of gray oolitic limestone, the monument rises to a height of nearly 285 feet, just five yards shorter than the Statue of Liberty. Sculptures built into the monument’s corners represent the Infantry, Cavalry, Artillery and Navy.

After examining the facade containing many intricately designed sculptures and inscriptions, visitors to the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument can take an elevator to the top, where an observation area encased in glass permits a superb view of downtown Indy. In the lower level of the monument, the Colonel Eli Lilly Civil War Museum houses a 9,000 square-foot exhibit that highlights the impact the Civil War had on Indiana and its people.

Each year during the holiday season, the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument is transformed into a colossal Christmas tree with thousands of lights. A city tradition since 1962, this grand illumination is an event known by Hoosiers as the Circle of Lights and takes place the day after Thanksgiving, drawing an estimated crowd of 100,000.

Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument
Monument Circle
Indianapolis, IN 46204
317.232.7615

Hours of Operation:
The Civil War Museum operates Wednesday through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Admission is free. The Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument is operated by the Indiana War Memorials Commission whose hours of operation are Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Video about Historic Memorials in Indianapolis.

Indianapolis is second only to Washington D.C. with regards to the monuments and memorials erected to honor those who have served our country, and these monuments have proven, across the generations, to be among the most-visited of the many Indianapolis attractions. On this Fourth of July it is not only important to respect and appreciate our freedom but to remember those who have served to keep us free. Seth Hancock and Zach Rutledge made a short film to show you these memorials, their importance and beauty and that we never forget those who have served on our behalf and on behalf of the grand values of peace and honor.