The Indiana War Memorial & Museum, located in Indianapolis, is a significant monument dedicated to honoring Hoosier veterans from various conflicts. The Memorial is the centerpiece of the Indiana War Memorial Plaza Historic District, a sprawling area that spans five city blocks and includes multiple monuments, fountains, and parks.
Construction of the Indiana War Memorial began in 1927, with the intention to honor those who served in World War I. Designed in a neoclassical style, the building resembles a large mausoleum, inspired by the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The exterior features six columns on each side, topped with sculptures representing courage, memory, peace, victory, liberty, and patriotism. The prominent Pro Patria statue on the south steps symbolizes the memorial’s dedication to the country.
The Memorial's interior is equally impressive, with the main attraction being the Shrine Room on the upper level. This room, dedicated to peace and unity, features materials from Allied nations of World War I and includes the Altar of Consecration, a place for reflection and remembrance. The main floor houses exhibits and administrative offices, while the lower level contains the museum, which showcases Indiana's military history from the Revolutionary War to the present.
The museum features a vast collection of artifacts, including weapons, uniforms, military equipment, and vehicles such as a Desert Storm Humvee and an AH-1 Cobra Attack Helicopter. It also houses the USS Indianapolis Radio Room and numerous battle flags, adding depth to its exhibits.
The War Memorial Plaza itself is home to several other monuments and memorials, including the Veterans Memorial Plaza, Obelisk Square, and the American Legion Mall, which commemorates veterans of World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.
This extensive and historically rich site not only honors Indiana's veterans but also serves as a place for public events, such as the 4th of July fireworks, and personal reflection, making it a significant landmark in Indianapolis.