I’ve long appreciated the First World War memorials to which the Czechs have added the names of Second World War dead, victims of fascism and communism, and in one case, the dead from UN service. Makes good use of existing monuments. The Soldiers and Sailors Monument in front of the old Kane County Courthouse in Geneva, Illinois is something a little bit different. Meant to honor the those of Kane County and the surrounding regions who fought in the Civil War, it is dedicated to the participants in all American wars. And, there have been plenty.
Geneva, Illinois (September 2021)
The monument, which incorporates three fighting-front figures, was a popular measure, headed by GAR veteran, John Rogers. Unveiled in 1915, it stands on a concrete and marble base, to which plaques listing the names of the Civil War veterans are affixed.
Geneva, Illinois (September 2021)
Behind the monument is another Civil War Memorial. It incorporates a shell shot at Vicksburg and recovered from the Mississippi in 1920 and ball & chain used by the Confederates at Andersonville Prison.
Geneva, Illinois (September 2021)
The naval guns flanking the monument date from the First World War. They were added in 1925. Don’t climb on them!
Geneva, Illinois (September 2021)
The monument memorizes the relatively few local veterans of earlier wars, those with Mexico and with Spain. It also honors veterans of the Second World War and the Korean War. And, by the way, a memorial plaque recalls the speech the late John F. Kennedy gave at the court house in 1960 when he was running for president.
Of Monuments and Memory 