The collection of monuments around Washington D.C. often overshadows other markers and memorials throughout Virginia. Many are a result of the state's rich Civil War history and one is even located on top of a mountain in eastern Virginia. Though not as well-known as many of their D.C. counterparts, many of Virginia's monuments are interesting and exciting.
Located in Virginia's capital of Richmond, Monument Avenue is the only U.S. street classified as a National Historic Landmark. The wide avenue in an upscale neighborhood features megalithic statues dedicated to Gens. Robert E. Lee and J.E.B. Stuart, Confederate president Jefferson Davis, Lt. Gen. Stonewall Jackson, seaman Matthew Fontaine Maury and tennis player Arthur Ashe Jr. Monument Avenue's statues are located in a tree-lined neighborhood along Monument Avenue between North Lombardy Street and Roseneath Road just outside downtown Richmond.
The Battle of Gettysburg in 1863 turned the tide of the Civil War and was its most deadly engagement. The site became a National Military Park in 1895 and now has numerous monuments to the soldiers and the deeds they performed. Among the park's more than 1,600 markers and monuments is the Eternal Light Peace Memorial, which, according to the park's website, was dedicated by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1938 during 75th anniversary festivities of the battle.
Gettysburg National Military Park
1195 Baltimore Pike, Suite 100
Gettysburg, PA 17325-2804
717-334-1124
nps.gov/gett/contacts.htm
The Virginia War Memorial overlooks the James River in Richmond, Virginia, and is meant to honor veterans of American wars since World War II. According to its website, the memorial was dedicated in 1956 and dignitaries from throughout the United States and beyond attended the ceremony. Inscribed on its walls are the names of more than 11,000 Virginians who died at war. The visitors center includes an auditorium for educational programs and a gift shop.
Virginia War Memorial
621 South Belvidere St.
Richmond, VA 23220-6504
804-786-2050
vawarmemorial.org
Audie Murphy, the most decorated American soldier in WWII and later a movie star, died in 1971, when his plane crashed on Brush Mountain, near Blacksburg, Va. A stone monument dedicated to Murphy's heroism stands near the site and is accessible by taking a short hike up the mountain along the Appalachian Trail--which was rerouted past the monument in 1991--or by taking a drive up a winding, gravel road.
