The Soldiers National Monument is south of Gettysburg in the National Cemetery. It stands near the location where Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address. (National Cemetery tour map) The cornerstone of the monument was laid on July 4, 1865, and it was finished and dedicated on July 1, 1869.
Soldiers National Monument in the National Cemetery at Gettysburg
The Soldiers National Monument is a monument to sorrow. Marble statues around the base of the monument represent History, War, Peace and Plenty. The figure of the Genius of Liberty stands on top of the monument. She holds a sword in one hand and the wreath of peace in the other, representing the constant struggle for freedom. The monument was designed by J. G. Batterson and carved by sculptor Randolph Rogers.
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
Location of the Soldiers National Monument at Gettysburg
The Soldier’s National Monument is southeast of Gettysburg. It is in the center of the National Cemetery. (39°49’11.3″N 77°13’52.3″W)