The Monument

For New Jersey residents, Atlantic City is often associated with its bustling boardwalk, vibrant casinos, and beautiful beaches. However, tucked away amidst the city's dynamic landscape are significant historical sites that offer a deeper glimpse into its past and a chance for reflection. One such landmark, known simply to locals as "The Monument," stands as a powerful tribute to a pivotal moment in history. This grand structure, officially the World War I Memorial, is more than just an architectural marvel; it's a testament to the sacrifices made by Atlantic City's citizens.

Understanding and appreciating local landmarks like The Monument enriches our connection to our home state. For those in New Jersey seeking to explore beyond the typical tourist attractions, this memorial provides a unique opportunity for historical engagement and quiet contemplation. This article will delve into the details of The Monument, including its impressive architecture, its historical significance, and how New Jersey locals can easily visit and experience this important piece of heritage in Atlantic City. We aim to provide a clear, factual, and engaging overview to encourage residents to explore this often-overlooked yet deeply meaningful site.

The Monument, formally recognized as the World War I Memorial, is prominently located at 124 Park Place, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, USA. More specifically, it resides within O'Donnell Park, situated at the intersection of S. Albany and Ventnor Avenues. This strategic location places it at one of the key entrances to Atlantic City, making it a noticeable landmark for anyone arriving in the southern part of the city.

For New Jersey residents, accessibility to The Monument is quite straightforward. Being in Atlantic City, it is easily reachable via major roadways such as the Atlantic City Expressway and various state routes. Public transportation options within Atlantic City, including local bus services, likely provide routes that pass near O'Donnell Park, making it accessible even without a personal vehicle. For those arriving by car, street parking may be available in the vicinity, though it's always advisable to check local parking regulations. The monument's presence within a park setting also suggests a walkable area once on site. Its central location in Atlantic City ensures that it can be easily combined with other activities in the city, such as a stroll along the boardwalk or a visit to nearby attractions, making it a convenient stop for locals exploring their own state. The site is also noted to be ADA accessible, ensuring that it can be experienced by a wide range of visitors.

As a historical monument and public park feature, "The Monument" (World War I Memorial) does not offer traditional commercial services like a campground. Instead, its "services" are related to its function as a public historical site and a place of remembrance. These include:

• Public Access and Visitation: The monument is freely accessible to the public, allowing individuals and groups to visit and reflect at any time. There is no admission fee, making it a readily available cultural resource for all New Jersey residents and visitors.

• Historical Education and Remembrance: The primary "service" of The Monument is to serve as a perpetual reminder of the sacrifices made during World War I. Inscriptions detailing battles and military branches, along with the central statue, offer an educational experience about this significant period in history and the role of Atlantic City's citizens within it.

• Community Space: Located within O'Donnell Park, The Monument contributes to a broader public green space. While the monument itself is a solemn memorial, the surrounding park areas can serve as a place for community gathering, quiet contemplation, or simply a pleasant stroll.

• Accessibility Features: The World War I Memorial is noted for being ADA accessible. This indicates that efforts have been made to ensure that individuals with various mobility needs can approach and experience the monument, including ramps or accessible pathways if necessary, though specifics of access directly to or within the rotunda may vary.

• Civic Engagement and Memorialization: The monument is part of a larger network of war memorials in Atlantic City and New Jersey. It participates in the broader civic service of honoring veterans and providing locations for memorial ceremonies and events, particularly on patriotic holidays, fostering a sense of shared history and gratitude within the community.

• Stunning Greek Temple Architecture: The Monument is modeled after a classical Greek Temple, measuring 124 feet in diameter and featuring 16 large Doric columns. This grand and imposing structure creates a powerful visual statement, making it a significant architectural landmark in Atlantic City. Its design evokes a sense of timelessness and solemnity.

• "Liberty in Distress" Statue: At the heart of the rotunda stands a powerful 9-foot tall bronze statue titled "Liberty in Distress" by Frederick W. MacMonnies. This statue depicts a poignant scene of Lady Liberty in anguish, often interpreted as screaming at the horrors of war, with a fallen soldier at her feet. It serves as a striking artistic centerpiece that conveys the somber message of the memorial.

• Inscriptions of WWI Battles and Military Branches: Around the top of the columns on the outer ring, the names of battles in which Atlantic City soldiers fought during World War I are etched, along with medallions representing the Army, Navy, Aviation, and Marine Corps. These inscriptions personalize the memorial, connecting it directly to the local community's contribution to the war effort.

• National and State Historic Recognition: The World War I Memorial was built in 1922 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places on August 28, 1981, and also listed on the New Jersey Register of Historic Places. This designation underscores its historical and architectural significance, protecting it as an important cultural asset.

• Located within O'Donnell Park: The monument is situated within O'Donnell Park, which is a larger memorial space that also contains other tributes, such as the New Jersey Korean War Memorial and various monuments to other conflicts. This allows visitors to experience multiple layers of historical remembrance in one location.

• Enduring Local Landmark: Affectionately referred to simply as "The Monument" by locals, this structure has been a consistent presence in Atlantic City for over a century. Despite past discussions about its relocation due to traffic flow, its resilience and continued presence reflect its deep-rooted significance to the city and its residents.

• Symbol of Resilience: The monument itself has a history of survival, enduring challenges from proposals to move or even demolish it. Its continued existence stands as a metaphor for the enduring spirit of Atlantic City and the sacrifices it commemorates.

Address: 124 Park Pl, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, USA

Please note: As a public historical monument, The Monument does not have a direct phone line for public inquiries. For information regarding the monument or O'Donnell Park, you might contact the City of Atlantic City's Parks & Recreation Department or the Atlantic City Visitor's Bureau.

For New Jersey residents, The Monument (World War I Memorial) in Atlantic City offers a profoundly suitable and accessible opportunity for historical engagement and quiet reflection. While not a "campground" in the traditional sense, it provides a powerful experience for locals seeking to connect with their state's history and honor those who served. Its location at a prominent gateway to Atlantic City means it's incredibly easy to visit, whether as a dedicated stop or as part of a larger day trip to the shore. This convenient accessibility makes it a valuable resource for families and individuals across New Jersey to educate themselves and future generations about the sacrifices made during World War I.

Visiting The Monument allows New Jerseyans to appreciate the architectural grandeur and the emotional depth of this unique memorial. It’s a chance to step away from the lively boardwalk and casino scene and immerse oneself in a moment of solemn contemplation. For those interested in local history, civic pride, or simply a peaceful moment of reflection, this landmark stands as a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of community and remembrance. It underscores that Atlantic City is more than just entertainment; it's a city with a rich past and significant historical treasures waiting to be discovered by its own residents. Engaging with The Monument allows locals to deepen their appreciation for New Jersey's heritage and the profound contributions of its citizens to national history.

The Monument

124 Park Pl, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, USA