The Victory Monument in Chicago stands as a bronze and granite sculptural monument, honoring the Eighth Regiment of the Illinois National Guard, an African-American unit that served with distinction during World War I. This iconic landmark, located at 3500 S Martin Luther King Dr, was designed by sculptor Leonard Crunelle in collaboration with John A. Nyden and was erected in 1927.

The monument pays homage to the 370th infantry of the 93rd Division, which included soldiers from Illinois who fought alongside French forces during the war. The Victory Monument serves as a significant tribute to these brave African-American veterans and stands prominently in Chicagos South Side at the intersection of 35th Street and King Drive.

The monument was built following the passage of Rep. George T. Kerseys bill for a Chicago war memorial honoring Black veterans in 1923, resulting in the construction of this historic landmark. Today, it stands as a symbol of pride and resilience within Chicagos African American community, reminding visitors of the sacrifices made by these soldiers during World War I.

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