Carmel-by-the-Sea World War I Memorial Arch

The Carmel-by-the-Sea World War I Memorial Arch is a sandstone structure built in Spanish Mission Revival style with a bronze bell housed at its center. The memorial stands in the median of a major downtown intersection, making it a focal point of the town.

The memorial was designed by architect Charles Sumner Greene in 1919, with its cornerstone laid during a city parade on Armistice Day in 1921. The bell component was added later to deepen the site's historical significance.

The arch honors those from the town who served during World War I, and the community marks the occasion with bell ringing at specific times of year. This site serves as a gathering place for remembering local military service.

The memorial sits on the center median of a busy intersection and is easily accessible on foot at any time of day. The location is open to the public, allowing visitors to stop by and view the structure whenever they choose.

The original bronze bell from 1966 was donated to mark the town's 50th anniversary, but is now preserved at the local library rather than in the arch itself. A replacement bell rings during the annual remembrance ceremonies held at this location.