This is a monument dedicated to Civil War Union soldiers. It was dedicated in 1884 and consists of a large 73-foot high granite column and a 9 and a half foot bronze statue of a solider holding a rifle on top. The original statue was made of Italian marble, but had to be replaced due to deterioration. The sculpture was made in the likeness of Private George Washington Fair, a carpenter and bricklayer born in Dayton who served in the Union Army from 1861 to 1865. It's height is impressive and it is in relatively good shape, especially considering its age and that it was moved twice, once to and new location in 1948 to alleviate traffic and then back to its original location in 1991.
There was a copper box containing documents of the time placed "within the granite bosom" of the monument during it 1884 dedication. They were removed in 1948 when the statue was moved. The documents included "copies of all daily and weekly newspapers of the day, the annual reports of the Board of Health and Police Department, a copy of the city directory for 1883 and a large color picture of the unveiling of the monument." I know, exciting stuff.
The monument is located in the middle of the street, and has a little plaza with some seating connected to it. If you walk over there then just be careful. You have to cross a busy street. There is metered street parking available within a reasonable walking distance and there is a commercial parking garage located across the street.
Definitely worth a look if you are in Dayton. I would probably couple it with a visit to the nearby Riverside Park to maximize your trip and make the most of your visit.
FYI: A crowd of 100,000 people witnessed the dedication in 1883. Dayton's population was reported to be 40,000 at that time. read more