Eternal Light Peace Memorial

The Eternal Light Peace Memorial is a stone monument in Gettysburg National Military Park made from limestone and granite, with a natural gas flame burning in a bronze urn atop a tower. Relief carvings on the structure depict symbols of reconciliation and can be seen from many locations across the battlefield.

President Franklin D. Roosevelt dedicated the memorial on July 3, 1938, on the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg with around 1,800 Civil War veterans present. This event marked a significant moment of national healing following the Civil War.

The inscription 'Peace Eternal in a Nation United' runs across the structure, and sculptures by Lee Lawrie depict the coming together of former enemies. These artistic elements express the hope for unity that visitors can feel while moving around the monument.

The flame is visible from many locations across the battlefield and serves as a helpful landmark when exploring the area. If you want to see the broader surroundings from this spot, plan to spend time climbing and taking in the views.

The eternal flame was briefly extinguished during the 1974 oil crisis, marking the only time its continuous burning has been interrupted since opening. This rare event highlights the monument's long history as an enduring symbol of peace.

Location: Adams County

Inception: 1938

Architects: Paul Philippe Cret

Creator: Lee Lawrie

Made from material: limestone

GPS coordinates: 39.84845,-77.24345

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:59