This category will not be as large as one might first think, as so many fine old buildings have been destroyed in the name of "Progress". If you are well off and love sports, you will have no problem with this. Otherwise you will feel as I do....a bit depressed when visiting and a bit angry at those that are after prestige and money but should know better than to throw away the beautiful irreplaceable heritage of everyone else.
Because of this I will be showing more "Detail" views of what we have left. There may not be any rhyme or reason in the presentation but I will try to maintain a semblance of order by the adding and moving of material from time to time....by hand.
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Soldiers & Sailors Monument
It is built of Indiana limestone from Owen county and stands 284.5 feet high. With it's theme of "War & Peace" the monument includes many relief and free standing sculptures of various personage, meaning and placement.
This view taken from about 30 feet north of Washington street is looking to the north. Notice that "Victory" atop the monument is facing toward the South. This view was taken on September 5, 2010
During the early years of Indianapolis, the circle area has served for several purposes including...nothing. It was once the location of the Governor's mansion which didn't last long as it was dark and dank and the Governor's wife wasn't about to display her wash in front of the public.
It has also served as a park and at one time the fire department was located toward the north....until it burned down!
I remember and cherish the thoughts and feelings I had when first hearing of and seeing the monument for the first time and especially of the climbing to the top. It was more interesting in the "Old" days and besides...you saved a dime!
Soldiers & Sailor's Monument
I can remember when this was the tallest structure in Indianapolis and someone telling me how people looked like ants and how tiny the cars and buses appeared.
Now what once was the pride of the city....can scarcely be seen. Now city planners should have had the sense of not putting any buildings taller then the monument within the four city blocks surrounding it. I thought so then and still do. But then....there is the money...always the money.
Miss "Victory"
I have done two drawings of her, the last was done in ink using the "Pointalistic" style of drawing. I used many very small dots of ink to achieve the fine detail.
The tiny wire that is seen toward the base keeps her from falling off.......
just wanted to see if you were 'doing' the reading!
Eagles
Date Band
The bronze date band or "Astragal", designed by George Brewster. A lot of thought and design for something 200 feet up!
Southside Astragal
I'm not sure about this astragal that faces the south. The bronze and stone work well together.
Honor the Silent Victors
This is located below the astragal shown above.
Statute to the Infantry
One of two free standing figures on the south side, this one representing the infantry is to the left.
Statute to the Scout
The other stature on the south side toward the right. This concludes the closeup images of the south side of the monument.
I have many more photos of the monument to show....it will just take time so please come back and visit.