The Milford Monument in Essig, MN, USA, stands as a silent sentinel of history, bearing witness to one of the darkest moments of Americas past. Erected by the State of Minnesota in 1929, it serves as a powerful symbol of the tragedy that unfolded on August 18, 1862, during the U.S.-Dakota War, when over fifty settlers lost their lives in a brutal attack by the Dakota tribe.

As you approach the monument, picture its location: nestled amidst vast fields and rolling hills, two and a half miles northeast of Essig, and eight miles west of New Ulm on County Road 29 in Brown County. The monument is dedicated to the memory of the fifty-three white settlers who perished in Milford Township during that fateful day.

The Milford Monument itself is an imposing structure, made of granite and standing over twenty feet tall. Its design features a large central column adorned with intricate carvings depicting scenes from the conflict between the settlers and the Dakota people. Each detail etched into the stone tells a story – one that cannot be forgotten.

As you stand before this solemn monument, take a moment to close your eyes and imagine the scene as it was on that fateful day over 150 years ago. You are transported back in time to witness the violence and terror experienced by those who called this land home. The sound of gunfire echoes through the air, as smoke rises from the burnt remnants of homes and farms.

Today, the Milford Monument stands not only as a tribute to those whose lives were tragically cut short but also as an important reminder of our nations complex history – one marked by conflict, loss, and ultimately, resilience. This monument serves to educate visitors about this dark chapter in American history so that we may never forget the sacrifices made and the lessons learned from those tragic events.

As you continue your tour, remember the significance of the Milford Monument – a poignant testament to both the triumphs and tragedies of our past. Let its haunting presence linger in your mind as you explore the rest of Essig and consider the stories that lie hidden beneath the surface of this picturesque landscape.