Smith Memorial Arch, Civil War memorial arch in West Fairmount Park, Philadelphia, United States
Smith Memorial Arch is a triumphal arch featuring two columns with curving neo-Baroque arches located in West Fairmount Park. The structure displays thirteen portrait sculptures, including equestrian statues and individual busts of military figures, along with eight bas-relief allegorical figures and two eagles perched on globes.
The arch was constructed between 1897 and 1912, funded through the will of Philadelphia type founder Richard Smith. This Civil War memorial arose from a major private donation intended to honor military heroes.
The memorial displays the work of thirteen different sculptors who each contributed portrait pieces to the structure. This collaborative artistic effort shows how a major project brought together multiple talents to honor the fallen.
The structure stands at the intersection of South Concourse and Lansdowne Drive, serving as an entrance to West Fairmount Park. Visitors can easily walk around it and view the sculptures from different angles.
The structure bears the names of eighty-four Pennsylvania veterans inscribed on its frieze. This personal recognition of individual soldiers gives the monumental work a human dimension.
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