Soldiers & Sailors Monument

The Indiana Soldiers & Sailors Monument stands at the center of Monument Circle in downtown Indianapolis, serving as Indiana's official memorial to the Hoosiers who served in the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, the Mexican War, the Civil War, the Frontier Wars, and the Spanish-American War. Recognized as one of the world's outstanding monuments, the limestone structure rises 284 feet and 6 inches — only 15 feet shorter than the Statue of Liberty — and has come to symbolize both the city and the state. Designed by Bruno Schmitz of Berlin and completed in 1902, the monument is crafted from gray oolitic limestone quarried in Owen County, Indiana. Its grounds feature an array of sculptural works, including the four corner statues representing the Infantry, Cavalry, Artillery, and Navy, and the crowning figure of Victory holding a sword and torch aloft. The monument's north and south steps and landings are available for private ceremonies and events, managed through the Indiana War Memorials Commission. The monument also houses a Gift Shop and an Observatory at 231 feet above street level, offering panoramic views of the Indianapolis skyline. Reservations for events are coordinated through the IWM Events Coordinator.