In the heart of Bladensburg, Maryland, stands a monument that has weathered storms both literal and figurative: the Peace Cross. This isn’t just any cross. It’s a towering 40-foot testament to the 49 Prince George’s County men who perished in the First World War. Constructed between 1919 and 1925, the Peace Cross is made of concrete, embedded with pink granite aggregate, giving it a unique, almost rosy hue. Its arms stretch towards the sky, held aloft by sturdy, unadorned concrete arches.
The Peace Cross, as it became known, wasn’t originally intended to be a religious symbol. Rather, its design mirrored the simple crosses that marked the graves of countless American soldiers in European cemeteries. It was a familiar sight, a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made across the ocean. The Snyder-Farmer American Legion post spearheaded its creation, choosing architect John J. Earley to bring their vision to life. The dedication ceremony in July 1925 was a somber affair, attended by dignitaries and grieving families. A bronze tablet at the base features Woodrow Wilson’s powerful words: “The right is more precious than the peace; we shall fight for the things we have always carried nearest our hearts; to such a task we dedicate ourselves.” Below this inscription, the words “Valor, Endurance, Courage, Devotion” are etched, encapsulating the spirit of those honored. And at its very center, a gold star shines, a symbol of hope amidst loss.
Over time, the landscape around the Peace Cross transformed drastically. Roads widened, traffic increased, and the once tranquil area became a bustling intersection. The Peace Cross, however, remained, a steadfast sentinel amidst the changing times. It was eventually entrusted to the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, which installed nighttime illumination to ensure its visibility and safety. The Peace Cross has faced its share of controversy, with legal challenges questioning its presence on public land. But in a landmark 2019 Supreme Court decision, the Peace Cross was deemed a historical monument, its significance transcending religious symbolism. The court recognized its purpose as a tribute to fallen soldiers and its importance to the community.
Today, the Peace Cross continues to stand tall, a reminder of the enduring power of memory and the sacrifices made in times of war. Its presence at this busy intersection ensures that the stories of these 49 men are not forgotten, their valor, endurance, courage, and devotion etched not only in stone, but in the hearts of those who pass by.