Peavy Fountain War memorial

In 1891, a gift was bestowed upon Minneapolis. Frank H. Peavey, a prominent figure, presented the city with a drinking fountain for horses. This wasn’t just any fountain. It was Peavey Fountain, a beautiful structure designed for a time when horses were the primary mode of transportation. Today, we stand before this same Peavey Fountain, but its purpose has evolved. It’s no longer just a watering hole for thirsty steeds. The Peavey Fountain stands as a poignant war memorial. It’s dedicated to the horses of the 151st Field Artillery, a Minnesota National Guard unit that served in World War I. These animals, often overlooked in the narratives of war, played a crucial role. They carried heavy artillery equipment, braving the dangers of battle alongside their human counterparts. In 1953, the veterans of the 151st rededicated Peavey Fountain. They chose to honor the horses that served and died alongside them. The inscription on the fountain tells this story. It acknowledges the fountain’s original purpose and its subsequent transformation into a memorial. Located in the middle of a roundabout on Lake of the Isles Parkway, Peavey Fountain can be easily missed. But its presence is a powerful reminder of the often-forgotten sacrifices made by animals in wartime. The rededication by the 151st speaks volumes about the bond between humans and animals. It’s a testament to the recognition and respect these soldiers felt for the horses that shared their burdens and dangers. The Peavey Fountain stands not only as a memorial, but also as a symbol of this deep connection.