Information
Landmark: Soldiers’ MonumentCity: Waterbury
Country: USA Connecticut
Continent: North America
Soldiers’ Monument, Waterbury, USA Connecticut, North America
The Soldiers' Monument is a memorial structure located in Waterbury, Connecticut, USA.
It commemorates soldiers from the American Civil War.
Visual Characteristics
The monument is constructed from granite. It stands approximately 75 feet tall. The primary structure is an obelisk, tapering to a point. A bronze statue of a Union soldier stands at the base, facing south. The granite is a mottled gray color.
Location & Access Logistics
The Soldiers' Monument is situated in Library Park, downtown Waterbury. It is located at the intersection of Main Street and Grand Street. The park is approximately 0.5 miles from the Waterbury Train Station. Limited street parking is available on surrounding streets. Public transport bus routes serving the downtown area stop within a 2-block radius.
Historical & Ecological Origin
Construction of the monument began in 1883 and was completed in 1884. It was designed by architect George E. Waring Jr. and sculpted by Carl Rohl-Smith. The monument was erected to honor Waterbury residents who served in the Union Army during the Civil War.
Key Highlights & Activities
Visitors can observe the bronze statue and granite obelisk. The surrounding park offers space for walking. Interpretive plaques detailing the monument's history are present.
Infrastructure & Amenities
Restrooms are available within Library Park, operated by the city. Shade is provided by mature trees in the park. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong in this downtown area. Food vendors are not permanently stationed at the monument, but are present in the downtown district.
Best Time to Visit
For photography, early morning or late afternoon light provides optimal illumination of the granite and bronze. The monument is accessible year-round during daylight hours. No specific tide requirements apply.
Facts & Legends
A local anecdote suggests that the bronze soldier statue was modeled after a specific Waterbury Civil War veteran, though official records do not confirm this individual's identity.
Nearby Landmarks
- Waterbury Public Library (0.1km West)
- Mattatuck Museum (0.3km North)
- City Hall (0.2km Southwest)
- Palace Theater (0.4km Northwest)