“Defenders of the Union” is inscribed here. This phrase adorns the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Arch. It is the only inscription on this grand monument. The Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Arch stands tall at Grand Army Plaza in Brooklyn. This arch commemorates the American Civil War veterans. It is one of New York City’s three major triumphal arches.
Imagine the late 19th century. Brooklyn planned a grand memorial after the Civil War. It wanted to honor Union Army soldiers. But no major monument appeared for two decades. Finally in 1888, the idea for the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Arch emerged.
The cornerstone was laid in 1889. The Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Arch was dedicated in 1892. Additional art was added over the next decade. The Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Arch became a focal point for various events. In 1973 it became a New York City landmark.
John Hemenway Duncan designed the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Arch. Duncan also designed Grant’s Tomb in Manhattan. Following an architectural design competition, Duncan was selected. His design was known as “Red Seal”. Duncan received $1,000 for his winning design.
The arch measures 80 feet tall. The archway opening is 50 feet tall and 35 feet wide. The Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Arch is made of granite. The base is darker granite from Quincy, Massachusetts. Lighter-colored granite sits above.
Look closely at the four pedestals. Two face north. Two face south. The northern pedestals are empty. Frederick MacMonnies created sculptures for the southern pedestals. They depict the United States Army and Navy.
Notice the archway opening. It contains bas-reliefs of Abraham Lincoln and Ulysses S Grant on horseback. Thomas Eakins designed the horses. William Rudolf O’Donovan designed the riders. The archway has a coffered ceiling.
Philip Martiny designed the spandrels. They are on the structure’s north and south facades. The north facade features the seals of New York State and Brooklyn. The south facade shows female figures of victory.
Climb to the roof. There is an observation deck. A quadriga sits atop the arch. Frederick MacMonnies designed it. The quadriga features Columbia. She is the female personification of the United States. She holds a sword and a flag.
Consider the interior. There are two circular stairways. They lead to the observation deck. There is also a room beneath the roof. It was intended for a war museum.
Temporary art installations have graced the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Arch. Local artists displayed exhibits in the late 20th century. These included multimedia and equestrian themes.
The Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Arch faced challenges over the years. There were renovations in 1980 and 2023-2024. These ensured its preservation. The arch stands as a testament to the past.
Today the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Arch remains an iconic symbol. It represents resilience, unity, and artistic achievement. Its presence enriches Grand Army Plaza and Brooklyn. It is a fitting tribute to those who defended the Union.