Soldiers National Monument

The Soldiers National Monument is south of Gettysburg in the National Cemetery. It marks the spot where Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address. (see map)

The cornerstone of the monument was laid on July 4, 1865, and it was finished and dedicated on July 1, 1869. Designed by J. G. Batterson and carved by sculptor Randolph Rogers, the Soldiers National Monument stands as a national monument to sorrow. Marble statues around the base of the monument represent History, War, Peace and Plenty. The figure of the Genius of Liberty tops the monument, holding a sword in one hand and the wreath of peace in the other and representing the constant struggle for freedom.

From the monument:

Gettysburg July 1, 2, 3, 1863

It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us—that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion—that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain—that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom—and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth. - Lincoln, November 19, 1863