Welcome to Ivers Square, a place of profound historical significance located in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. Originally donated by the city’s founder, Don Louis Lorimier, in 1805, this site has seen centuries of transformation and historical events. It began as the location for the Common Pleas Courthouse, built in 1854, which played a pivotal role during the Civil War as the headquarters for the Union Provost General. The courthouse grounds are where James Ivers, an African American enslaved by John Ivers, Jr., took a historic step toward freedom by enlisting in the U.S. Colored Troops on June 18, 1863, the very first day African American men were allowed to enlist. Tragically, James died of consumption just six weeks into his service at Fort Curtis in Helena, Arkansas. Yet his legacy lived on through his wife Harriet, who became one of the first women of color to own property in Cape Girardeau.
In June 2017, this location was named Ivers Square to honor James and Harriet Ivers, recognizing their courage and contributions to history. Two years later, in June 2019, a statue was unveiled here, commemorating the bravery of the African American soldiers who enlisted during the Civil War. This statue is the final cast of its kind, with other versions located in Nashville National Cemetery and Freedom Park in Helena, Arkansas.
As you walk through Ivers Square today, you are stepping on the very grounds where history was shaped, from courthouse hearings to military enlistments. Each corner echoes stories of courage, resilience, and the quest for justice. The unveiling ceremony of the statue was a vibrant celebration, featuring Civil War reenactors, musical performances, and dramatic portrayals of historical figures, including Harriet Ivers herself. This square not only stands as a reminder of the past but also as an inspiration for future generations.
