Ulysses S. Grant Memorial

The Ulysses S. Grant Memorial is a bronze and marble sculpture group at Union Square in Washington, D.C. The central equestrian statue shows Grant on his horse, surrounded by two large side groups depicting artillerymen and cavalrymen on a wide marble platform.

Congress approved the construction of this monument in 1901, making it the largest of its kind at the time. Work continued for two decades and finished in 1922 to honor Grant's role as commander of the Union armies.

Bronze lions stand at each corner as guardians of the entire composition. Grant himself sits quietly in the saddle while the artillery and cavalry groups around him show the intensity of combat.

The monument stands at the base of Capitol Hill near the Reflecting Pool and can be reached via First Street. The open location allows visitors to walk around the entire structure and view details of the side sculpture groups.

The artillery group on the south side shows three soldiers and several horses in dramatic motion as they pull cannons into battle. The northern cavalry charge appears equally dynamic, with riders shown in full action and creating a strong contrast to Grant's calm posture.

Location: Washington, D.C.

Inception: 1919

Architects: Henry Shrady

Creator: Henry Shrady, Edward Pearce Casey

Subject:

Made from material: bronze, marble

Part of: Civil War Monuments in Washington, D.C.

Website: https://aoc.gov/capitol-grounds/ulysses-s-grant-memorial

GPS coordinates: 38.88979,-77.01291

Latest update: December 20, 2025 01:57