Welcome to Memorial - Confederate Soldiers of Monroe County in Union, West Virginia. As we approach the monument on 595 Main St, youll notice its imposing presence against the backdrop of the picturesque town. Unveiled on August 21, 1901, this marble statue stands as a testament to the bravery and sacrifices made by Confederate soldiers from Monroe County during the U.S. Civil War in the 1860s.
As you take in the impressive sight of the 6-foot tall marble soldier standing on his granite base, weighing an astonishing 40,000 pounds and towering at a height of 20 feet, its hard not to be moved by the dedication and pride that went into crafting this tribute. The attention to detail in capturing the essence of a Confederate soldier is striking, with the figure standing upright in uniform.
Despite the name Union, the town of Union was known for its strong pro-Confederacy roots during the Civil War era, and Monroe Countys ties to the Confederate cause are undeniable. Thats why this memorial holds such importance in the community – it represents a significant chapter in West Virginias history and serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for their beliefs.
As we stand here, close your eyes and imagine the bustling scene on that fateful day in 1901 when over 10,000 people gathered to dedicate this monument. The excitement and anticipation in the air, the pride swelling in everyones hearts as they paid homage to their fallen heroes – it must have been an unforgettable sight to behold.
Now open your eyes once more and let the weight of history settle around you. This is Memorial - Confederate Soldiers of Monroe County: a poignant symbol of West Virginias rich past and a testament to the resilience and spirit of those who fought for their beliefs, no matter the cost.
As we conclude our tour, take a moment to reflect on the lives of these brave soldiers, the struggles they faced, and the legacy they left behind. Their stories may be etched in stone, but their memories live on in our hearts and minds as we walk away from this hallowed ground.