The poignant silence speaks volumes. This is the World War I Memorial. Right here in New York City. It’s a testament to the city’s deep connection to the Great War. Thousands of New Yorkers were involved in maritime traffic. They faced constant danger. Hometown regiments like the Fighting 69th and the Harlem Hellfighters fought bravely overseas. This memorial reflects the many emotions of the time. Patriotism sorrow idealism. It’s one of many in the city. Some are hidden some are well-known parts of their neighborhoods.
The first World War I memorial in the United States was a clock. It’s in the tower of Pier A Battery Park. Dedicated in 1919 it’s now hard to see. The pier is closed to the public. Restoration work is underway. Many memorials weren’t erected by the city. Regimental armories built most. The Gold Star Mothers a group of mothers who lost sons contributed a statue. This doughboy stands in front of the 14th New York Regiment armory in Park Slope Brooklyn. It was almost lost to vandalism. A community protest saved it.
Typical World War I monuments are bronze and heroic. Often they show soldiers with bayonets. One in Chelsea lower Manhattan is like that. Its dates include the period before the US joined the war. It’s dedicated to soldiers and sailors. Chelsea has a long maritime history. This could honor those who died in German attacks during the period of US neutrality. A similar memorial honors the 7th Regiment near Central Park.
Brooklyn’s official memorial is in Prospect Park. Unlike the armory statues it’s somber. It’s somewhat mysterious. An angelic figure supports a weary soldier. Panels list the borough’s war dead. Some panels are missing. This reflects the post-war mood of loss and the death of ideals. Interestingly it’s dedicated to men and women. Only one woman’s name is on the list. She was Daisy M Kirkterp an RCN member.
The Queens memorial in Forest Park is also somber. The Richmond Hill community erected it. It reflects war fought with determination and self-sacrifice. This is different from the more heroic armory statues. It’s very much a product of its time. Smaller memorials exist all over. A plaque on the front of P.S. 134 in Brooklyn shows mostly English and Irish names. It includes a quote from the Gettysburg Address. The names of students killed in the war have mysteriously vanished.
Another plaque honors Merchant Marine members. It includes a long quote from President Warren G Harding. It talks about their great service and the loss of hundreds of precious lives. In 1921 this plaque was on the Customs House. Now it’s on the National Museum of the American Indian. A striking memorial in Central Park is dedicated to John Purroy Mitchel. He was the youngest mayor of New York City. He died in a plane crash during WWI training.
In the 1920s planting trees to honor individual soldiers became popular. Memorial trees are still around the Brooklyn Public Library and along Prospect Park West. Street names also honored soldiers. Avenue A became York Avenue after Sergeant York. The Fighting 69th is the most celebrated regiment. Father Duffy and Sergeant Joyce Kilmer are legendary figures. Kilmer’s death inspired a famous movie scene. Two boroughs have places named after him. Regimental armories also serve as memorials. The 69th and 369th armories are examples. They contain memorials to the soldiers. Many more memorials undoubtedly exist. Many remain to be discovered. The World War I Memorial reminds us of this rich history. It stands as a silent tribute. A tribute to the sacrifices made. A reminder of the war’s lasting impact on New York City.