Building Type: Landmark
Campus Green: College Green
Grid Map Square: H3
Current Use
The Soldiers and Sailors Monument stands near Court Street in Athens Ohio as a memorial to the 2,610 citizens of Athens Ohio who served in the Civil War. The monument was erected in 1893.
History
The Soldiers and Sailors Monument was erected in 1893 in memory of the 2,610 citizens of Athens Ohio who served in the United States Civil War. A plaque on the monument reads:
The people will ever remember how much our national prosperity is due to the patriotism and valor of the men who died in service to their country.
Another plaque reads:
“The people of Athens County erect this monument in memory of those who volunteered as soldiers and sailors in defense of the union and to perpetuate free government.”
The monument used to include a pyramid of cannon balls and a canon. These relics are no longer seen at the site. During World War II, the government had to melt down the cannon balls to use as artillery.
The monument is located on the College Green (commons) of Ohio University. Ownership of the commons had been a point of contention between Athens and Ohio University for decades. The University wanted the property deeded over to them, but Athens residents argued that the land was useful as a pasture for their livestock and as a drilling ground for the militia. Eventually, General Charles Grosvenor led a group of Civil War veterans in raising money for the monument. The village council released the land while the University agreed to maintain the monument.
Location
The College Green
College Green is the center of Ohio University. Notable buildings on this green include Cutler Hall, McGuffey Hall, Wilson Hall, Alden Library and Templeton-Blackburn Alumni Memorial Auditorium.
Experience Athens
People can tell you how great the Athens Campus is, but the best way to know whether it’s right for you is to see it—and experience it—for yourself.