What secrets lie buried beneath the imposing General Worth Monument? This towering obelisk, right here before us, isn’t just a tribute to a forgotten war hero. It’s his final resting place. The General Worth Monument, a striking granite structure, stands as a testament to Major General William Jenkins Worth. It’s a fusion of history, art, and a touch of the unexpected, tucked away near the bustling intersection of Fifth Avenue, Broadway, and 25th Street. Worth, born in Hudson, New York, began his distinguished military career in the War of 1812. He later served as Commandant of Cadets at West Point. His leadership during the Mexican-American War cemented his place in history, earning him a Congressional Sword of Honor.
The monument’s design, the brainchild of James Goodwin Batterson, is rich with symbolism. The obelisk itself, a form dating back to ancient Egypt, speaks to Worth’s enduring legacy. Bronze reliefs depict the General astride his horse, a powerful image of his command. Inscriptions list the battles where he made his mark: Monterrey, Vera Cruz, San Antonio, City of Mexico, Perote, Puebla, Cerro Cordo, Chapultepec, Florida, Chippewa, Fort George, Lundy’s Lane, Contreras, Churubusco, West Point, and Molino del Rey. Above the relief, a “trophy” of cannons, swords, and flags symbolizes victory and glory. The cast-iron fence surrounding the General Worth Monument cleverly replicates the design of the dress sword awarded to Worth by New York.
A curious detail for you: the monument wasn’t always here. Originally, Worth was interred in Brooklyn’s Green-Wood Cemetery. However, on Evacuation Day in 1857, his remains were moved with great fanfare to this spot. Thousands gathered as a procession of 6,500 soldiers escorted his coffin to the newly erected monument. This makes General Worth Monument one of only two monuments in New York City that also serve as mausoleums. The other, of course, is the much more famous Grant’s Tomb. The General Worth Monument is a silent sentinel. It guards not just the memory of a war hero but also his physical remains. A hidden piece of history, just steps away from the vibrant energy of Madison Square Park. It’s a place where the past and present intersect, inviting us to reflect on the lives that shaped our city.