Amsterdam’s Weteringsplantsoen is a lovely little park situated in the southwest part of the city.
On my way to a tour at the Heineken Experience, I had some time to kill. Passing this small park, I decided to take a detour through it and take some pictures of the adjacent canal and the beautiful fall foliage. Something, however, caught my eye before I made it to the canal.
Fall foliage on the Singelgracht Canal
A statue of a man laying down.
Since I could not read Dutch, I snapped a few photos and decided to do some investigation a bit later.
What I found was quite interesting.
The official name of this place, Fusilladeplaats Rozenoord, can be translated into English as “the firing squad place”.
During World War II, this rose garden was the site where German occupation forces shot and killed more than 100 Dutch civilians, many of them resistance fighters, during a four month period. While this was a widely known event, no one ever faced trail for the crimes.
Even though the events are commemorated on May 4, every year, it was decided that a memorial be erected to pay homage to those who lost their lives. This monument’s inscription reads:
Op deze plaats werden in de laatste maanden van de Tweede Wereldoorlog meer dan 100 Nederlanders door de Duitse bezetter gefusilleerd (At this place, during the last months of the Second World War, the German occupiers shot dead more than 100 Dutch people)
For more pictures, check out Facebook, Snapping the Globe and Instagram, @snappingtheglobe.
Traveling with my friend Cristina is always a treat…she’s one of those few people that I can plan a trip with and expect to see everything that the city has to offer. She has as much energy as I do and always has an idea for something fun! Together, we are a traveling force to be reckoned with!
Last fall, while working a trip to Milan, we decided that we should take a day trip to a neighboring city. Scouring the map, we looked for cities that were an hour or an hour and a half away and that offered numerous sites and a city center with easy access to the train station.
Stumbling upon a cool little video about the city of Lodi, we decided that this would be our destination. With only a thirty-minute train ride (a bonus!), a beautiful Piazza and plenty of churches, it looked like there would be plenty to keep us occupied that afternoon.
Heading to Milan’s Centrale Station, we hopped on a train and struck up conversation with a young woman heading toward Bologna. She had been to Lodi and insisted that we would enjoy our excursion, especially since it was one of those no-cloud-in-the-sky warm fall afternoons.
Thirty minutes later, bidding our new friend Arrivederci, we jumped off the train and made our way toward the city center. Spying some unique architecture and passing through Passeggio Federico I Park and its many monuments, we happened upon the Porta Cremona, a monumental gate which also pays tribute to the fallen of the Great War fought in Lodi, Italy.
Passeggio Federico I Park
Porta Cremona
Porta Cremona
Gazing wistfully at the locked Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, we continued on knowing that there was much that awaited us only a few blocks away.
Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie
Heading north, we chatted as we passed numerous churches, intriguing alleyways and interesting art and architecture. Reaching the Napoleon Bonaparte bridge, which spans the Adda river, we stood on its pedestrian walkway gazing out at its muddy waters and the beautiful villas lining its banks. This bridge played an important role in the Battle of Lodi, during the French Revolutionary War, on May 10, 1796, when the French forces, under Napoleon’s rule, went head-to-head with Austrian forces, led by Karl Philipp Sebottendorf. While Napoleon was successful in this campaign, it was not a decisive battle, but one that led Napoleon to believe that he was superior to other generals and destined to achieve great things. A couple blocks from the river we found an interesting statue of Napoleon Bonaparte and a commemorative plaque.
Sights in LodiNapoleon Bonaparte bridge, spanning the Adda river
As we continued our walk, we discovered a quaint little courtyard filled with plates decorating the walls. Not sure if it was attached to an artist’s studio, it was fun looking at all the displays. There were lots of little shops and cafes along the way, many closed for a few hours in the afternoon, but the best one was Gelateria Umberto. Who can resist a couple of scoops of gelato in the afternoon? Not me!
Shops of Lodi
Gelato snack!
San Felippo Neri Church
Archway over Corso Umberto I
Finally, we made it to the Piazza della Vittoria (Victory Square), where the Lodi Cathedral (Duomo) takes the center stage.
Lodi Cathedral
Founded in 1158, the cathedral was completed in two phases, the second, being carried on from 1170 and the façade being completed in 1284. The brick entrance that faces the Piazza is Gothic in style, however, the overall building is Romanesque with a massive bell tower which was left unfinished.
Lodi Cathedral Entrance
As we entered the massive church, the largest in northern Italy and seat of the Bishop of Lodi, we were amazed with how much there was to see within its walls. Looking down the nave toward the altar, there were two staircases on either side. At the back of the church there were multiple tombs and along each wall, multiple side chapels, the most impressive being a simple niche containing a 15th century, full-size wooden depiction of Christ, his disciples and his blessed mother, Mary. The church is also connected on the left to the Bishop’s Palace and a court which is the remaining part of a cloister dating back to 1484.
Lodi Cathedral
Lodi CathedralLodi CathedralLodi Cathedral
Lodi Cathedral
Lodi CathedralLodi Cathedral
Up the right-hand staircase, we found the entrance to the crypt, which features a 12th century bas-relief and is the oldest section of the cathedral. In the center of the crypt is an altar dating back to 1856, which houses the remains of Saint Bassianus in a beautifully bedecked silver case. On the left-hand side of the high altar is the altar of Saint Alberto Quadrelli, Bishop of Lodi from 1168 to 1173.
Bishop’s Palace
Court remains of 15th century cloister
Once our explorations of the cathedral were complete, we headed back into the Piazza, formerly known as the Piazza Maggiore until 1924. The town hall is located here as well as the Vistarini Palace, one of the most beautiful in the city. Porticos which protect cafe tables from the sun and the elements, line the edges of the square and it is quite colorful and scenic. It is definitely the heart of the city today where the residents meet for conversation, children play games and the local market is held on Tuesdays and Thursdays in contrast to the fairs, festivals and executions which took place during Medieval times. As countless bishops have traversed the square over time, it even saw the arrival of Pope John Paul II in 1992.
Piazza della Vittoria
Piazza della Vittoria
Vistarini Palace
Spying another tall bell tower down one of the streets branching off of the Piazza, we set off on foot attempting to find what lay beneath. While the church we found was closed, our curiosity led us to an even greater discovery, Il Templo dell’Incoronata.
Chiesa di Santa Maria del SoleSights in LodiSights in LodiTempio delle Incoronata
At the end of the 15th century, a brothel with a painting of an image of the Virgin Mary was located in the area known today as via Incoronata. It is said that in September of 1487, the image of the Virgin Mary wept and called on those present to build a temple dedicated to her on that site…Tempio delle Incoronata or the Temple of the Crowned.
Tempio delle IncoronataEntrance
Tempio delle Incoronata(Rear View)
With the assistance of all citizens of Lodi, the Temple of the City was erected and became one of the most beautiful buildings of Renaissance Lombardy. Started in 1488 by Giovanni Battagio, a pupil of Bramante, it was completed in 1503, by Lorenzo Maggi, and a portico was added in the late 15th century and the loggia in 1882. It was through two small doors in the portico that we entered, only because we were being nosy when we saw other tourists exit. Walking a short distance thru a small, dark hallway, our inquisitiveness was rewarded with one of the most spectacular church interiors that we had both ever laid eyes on.
Tempio delle IncoronataTempio delle IncoronataTempio delle IncoronataTempio delle Incoronata
The octagonal space was surrounded by arches on the lower level, an altar and an octagonally domed ceiling all highlighted by copious amounts of gilt. Every space not covered in gold was decorated with paintings, most completed by three generations of the Piazza family, who were founding the most prestigious painting school in Italy. It was almost indescribable! The only disappointing part was that we were not there on Sunday when the underground space below the monumental sacristy is open to the public. In this museum space, there are three different rooms housing rare and unique works of sacred art and objects attesting to the importance of the sanctuary.
Tempio delle IncoronataTempio delle Incoronata
Giddy with excitement, we headed back out into the city, taking a roundabout route back to the train station. Spotting the Church of San Lorenzo, we ducked inside, perhaps to say a few prayers for our expeditious return to Milan since we were hearing rumblings of a train strike.
Church of San Lorenzo
The city’s oldest church, after the cathedral, was built in the 12th and 13th centuries. A typical Romanesque-style church, we noticed an image of Saint Lorenzo, above the altar, to whom the church is dedicated. There were several works of art within the church and beautiful architectural details including the apse above the choir with 16th century stucco adornments by Abbondio da Ascona and a fresco of a Resurrected Christ by Callisto Piazza.
Church of San LorenzoChurch of San Lorenzo
Church of San Lorenzo
Church of San Lorenzo
Glancing at our watches, we noted the time and set off once again, finding ourselves in the Piazza di Castello. The Visconti Castle spread out before us, including the Torrione di Lodi (Tower of Lodi). The castle was founded in the 12th century by a member of the Visconti family, the Lord and Dukes of Milan who in the 13th and 14th centuries took possession of and then rebuilt the original fortification. In 1456, Francesco Sforza added a round tower to the northern corner of the castle which eventually (20th century) was converted to a water tower. It has since become a landmark of Lodi greeting those who arrive into the city. Today, the castle is the seat of the Questura of Lodi, the local office of the Italian Ministry of the Interior. As we studied the exterior of the castle, we realized that we would have liked to have seen more of it, however, it is not open to the public and even if it had been, we had that train to catch!
Piazza di Castello
Visconti Castle and Torrione di Lodi (Tower of Lodi)
Walking quickly, we headed to the train station. Catching sight of the pink-hued building with its statue dedicated to Amatori Wasken Lodi, the city’s roller hockey team(yes, really…), and the time on the station’s clock, we knew that we had made it in time to get back to Milan for our dinner reservation!
Lodi Train Station and statue dedicated to Amatori Wasken Lodi
While Lodi had not been on our radar as one of the Italian cities we wanted to visit initially, we were so glad that we had found that video prior to our trip which was the inspiration for a wonderful day. Being so close to Milan was a bonus, but the biggest reward was the multitude of attractions that the city has to offer and getting to share it with my friend, Cristina!
For more pictures check out Facebook, Snapping the Globe and Instagram @snappingtheglobe.com.
News reports these past couple of weeks have kept the world on edge. With bated breath, we watch to see what this war will bring.
People have fled from their homes and their country because of wars past, but because of modern day communications, we are seeing it in real time. We don’t have to rely on hearsay or wait for the daily newspapers as was once the case during past altercations.
But, as difficult as it is to see, it brings to mind the sacrifices those have made in the past for the freedoms many have in their own countries.
Sacrifices we should never forget.
War memorials have been erected throughout the world so as not to forget those who died fighting for their country, their own people and for what they believe in.
Over the course of my travels, I have visited many war memorials throughout the world…Washington, D.C., Honolulu, London, Normandy and Berlin and many more.
Many notable cities have constructed these monuments to pay tribute to those who served and they attract large numbers of visitors each year. But when I learned that there was a very important memorial in western Virginia, just a few hours from my home, I was somewhat perplexed.
The D-Day Memorial was built to honor the American GIs who participated in WWII at the invasion of France at Normandy on June 6, 1944. More than 3,000 American soldiers were killed and wounded, among them eleven companies of soldiers from Virginia. More than thirty soldiers from Bedford went ashore at Omaha Beach. By day’s end, nineteen of Bedford’s soldiers were dead and four more died later in the Normandy campaign. With a population of only 3,200, this constituted one of the most severe proportional losses of any town in the United States.
Dedicated on June 6, 2001, by United States president George W. Bush, the memorial receives over 100,000 visitors per year, including veterans from different wars.
My friend Kathie, an army veteran, had wanted to visit this memorial for quite some time. Learning that its unique water features do not operate during the harsh winter months, we had postponed our trip. With a busy spring and summer, we suddenly realized that with winter approaching once again, the water feature would soon again be off.
Deciding that it was “now or never (or much later)”, we decided to make a day of it and make the long three-hour drive to Bedford in November.
Purchasing our online tickets, we effortlessly made our way past the entrance gates and to the ticket office to check in. Asked to step outside for the arrival of our guide, I walked into the Bobbie G. Johnson Pavilion to admire some of the antique military vehicles.
Bobbie G. Johnson Pavilion
As prompt as a military man can be, our veteran guide joined us and introduced himself. He then asked for those veterans in the group to identify themselves. Acknowledging those with raised hands, he missed my friend Kathie. It was probably not intentional, as I’m sure he greets more men than women, but it was sad that she was passed over. Thankfully, some around us, realizing the slight, reached over to her and thanked her for her service.
After an introduction to the memorial grounds, he led us past the John Robert “Bob” Slaughter portrait bust and the sculpture Homage, for the sons of Bedford, to the Reynolds Gardens and then we were free to wander the premises on our own.
John Robert “Bob” Slaughter portrait bust
Homage
The Richard S. Reynolds Sr. Gardens are beautifully landscaped and well maintained, with its pattern mimicking the design of the Supreme Headquarters Allied Expeditionary Force shoulder patch. Here, we discovered the sculpture, The Supreme Commander, which depicts Dwight D. Eisenhower as the Supreme Commander for Operation Overlord. In the dome above him, a mosaic tiled map details plans for the invasion and he is surrounded by busts of his principle subordinates…Air Chief Marshal Sir Arthur William Tedder, Deputy Supreme Commander Admiral Sir Bertram H. Ramsay, Allied Naval Commander, Air Chief Marshal Sir Trafford L. Leigh-Mallory, Allied Air Forces Commander, Field Marshal Sir Bernard L. Montgomery, D-Day Assault Commander, Lieutenant General Omar N. Bradley, US 1st Army Commander and Lieutenant General Walter Bedell Smith, Chief of Staff. Along the wall to the north, you can observe monuments honoring the major ground forces that participated in D-Day.
Richard S. Reynolds Sr. Gardens
Dwight D. Eisenhower, The Supreme CommanderRichard S. Reynolds Sr. Gardens
Richard S. Reynolds Sr. Gardens
Franklin D. Roosevelt
Monuments honoring the major ground forces that participated in D-Day.
Making our way up to Elmon T. Grey Plaza, where the floor is divided into five segments (alluding to the five D-Day landing beaches: Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno, and Sword), it is surrounded by bronze plaques bearing the names of the 4,413 Allied service members killed in action on D-Day. The names of United States service members are on the western wall; the names of the other Allied Expeditionary Force members are on the eastern wall. There is an alphabetical register of names inside the Gift Shop.
Elmon T. Grey Plaza
Finally, we had reached the part of the monument where the water feature was so important. The granite “Higgins Boat”, representing the various landing craft that brought troops from their ships to shore on the morning of D-Day, sits along the “waterfront” and in the shallows lie two “hedgehogs” representing the many obstacles that the Germans had set out to deter the landing craft making their way to shore.
German Hedgehog
There are many beach sculptures which display troops on various poses of battle, honoring the valor, fidelity, and sacrifice, the hallmark of Operation Overlord. As we looked out over the scene before us, we realized that the sounds we were hearing were that of bullets whizzing by and hitting the water with small explosions. This, along with the cascading falls alongside soldiers scaling the wall, was the water feature that we wanted to experience and it really lent to the authenticity of the encounter.
Making our way to the top of the wall to Robey W. Estes Sr. Plaza, we found the highlight of the memorial, the forty-four-and-a-half foot triumphal arch. The black and white arch was designed to rise to this height to commemorate the date of the D-Day invasion…the sixth day of the sixth month of 1944.
Triumphal arch
Triumphal arch
Also in Estes Plaza, which celebrates the success in the Normandy Landing, is the sculpture, Final Tribute, the inverted rifle topped with a helmet, which salutes the more than 4,400 Allied Members of the Expeditionary Forces. You can spot the National D-Day Memorial seal inscribed on the floor beneath the arch.
Final Tribute
National D-Day Memorial Seal
Making our way past the arch to the Edward R. Stettinius Jr. Parade which shows the liberations expansion from the beaches to Paris and beyond, we encountered Le Monument aux Morts, created by French sculptor Edmond de Laheudrie in memory of the forty-four men of Trevieres, France who died in World War I. The original statue was struck in the head and disfigured. It was re-cast and serves as a reminder of peace and victory. We also crossed the path of ThePurple Heart Monument which stands in the shadow of the garrison flag. It is dedicated to those who received the Purple Heart for their service on D-Day. Flying overhead are the flags of the twelve nations of the AEF in an arch along the exterior of Estes Plaza.
Edward R. Stettinius Jr. Parade
Le Monument aux Morts
ThePurple Heart Monument
Flags from twelve nations.
A couple of other items of interest on the premises is the aircraft on the western side of Estes Plaza which pays tribute to the more than 11,000 aircraft which flew in support of the D-Day operations and the Gold Star Families Memorial, which pays tribute to parents, children, spouses and siblings of those who died in service to their nation at any point in our nation’s history.
Gold Star Families Memorial
Monument to US Coast Guard
While our visit wasn’t a lengthy one, it was one that stirred up a lot of emotions for not only myself, but for my friend Kathie who had devoted some time in her life to our nation’s military. Though she never saw combat, I am sure that it brought to mind the possibilities that she could have faced, should war have been declared at that time.
At this time of so much uncertainty, we need to pray for those fighting in the world to maintain their freedoms, for those who have lost their lives and those that will. Their families will never forget them. Neither should the world.
For more pictures, check out Facebook, Snapping the Globe and Instagram, @snappingtheglobe.
Address: 3 Overlord Circle, Bedford, Virginia 24523
Hours: 1000-1700, daily. Closed Mondays December through February. Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. The Memorial closes at noon on New Year’s Eve.
Admission: Adults, $12.00 ($10.00 online), Veteran (not WWII), $10.00 ($8.00), WWII veterans and active-duty military, free, Students (https://www.dday.org/
Address:
Hours: 1000-1700, daily. Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. The Memorial closes at noon on New Year’s Eve.
Admission: Adults, $12.00 ($10.00 online), Veteran (not WWII), $10.00 ($8.00 online), WWII veterans and active-duty military, free, Students (ages 6-18 or older with college ID), $8.00 ($6.00 online), Children (under age 6), free. Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest/D-Day Memorial Combo Ticket, $20, includes admission and tour at both sites, which may be visited on separate dates.
Getting There: From Richmond, 360 west to 460 west; Follow signs to Lynchburg and Bedford. Take 2nd Bedford Exit. Take a right off of the exit onto Burks Hill Road. Take the next left at the Bedford Area Welcome Center for ticket purchases. Total distance – approximately 143 miles. Or, 64 west to 81 south; take exit 150 to Alternate 220; Follow signs to 460 (Lynchburg and Bedford) and take a left onto 460 east. Travel approximately 25 minutes and take the 122 exit. Take a left off of the exit and proceed through the stoplight. Take an immediate left at the Bedford Area Welcome Center for ticket purchases. From Roanoke,460 east to Route 122 north. Take the 122 exit. Take a left off of the exit and proceed through the stoplight. Take an immediate left at the Bedford Area Welcome Center for ticket purchases. Total distance-approximately 27 miles.
I had missed being in Accra and was excited to show my friend around on her first sojourn. Once we had visited Black Star Square, a new locale for me, it was time to reacquaint with some “oldies but goodies” and see what else we might discover in the process.
When you walk around the city, you never know what you might encounter…fighting cows, someone’s laundry on a city bench or wall, someone sleeping under a tree, countless vendors hawking their goods. It is always a surprise and usually quite entertaining.
Dodging the hazards of the crumbling sidewalk, we ventured back along 28 September Road towards the Accra Arts Market. Speaking of not knowing what you might find or walk away with, this is the place. I was in search of face masks made of kente cloth and I knew exactly where to look, however, it is quite difficult engaging with the locals who invite you into their booths and remind you that it’s always “free to look”. Although I have countless masks and other oddities from my previous visits, I steeled myself to say no, however, my friend, on her first visit, couldn’t and walked away with a small table!
Purchases aside, we were able to reconnect with my old friend David, a drum maker who works in the market, share a soda and some great gossip!
Since the Kwame Nkrumah monument was a short distance away, I decided that we should stop in for a visit. Although I had been there before, it was nice to see it once again, even if the fountains were all drained and the property a bit unkempt. One of the most interesting things I discovered was in the museum at the back of the property. I had just finished watching the Netflix series, “The Crown” and remembered the episode when Queen Elizabeth danced with President Nkrumah at a ball in Accra in 1961. Right there on the wall was a photo depicting that particular event!
Leaving the property, I suddenly realized a major mistake we made upon our arrival. I really am out of practice… Never tell some of the locals your name unless you want a personalized ornament, shell, bracelet…the possibilities are endless. I understand that they are desperately trying to make a living, but once they had our name (in our case) they made bracelets for each of us with our monikers woven into it and wanted to sell it to us. Sadly, I didn’t have enough money for their asking price (which was quite high) and I felt bad for the amount of time spent making it, so…we came to an agreement of a purchase with a discount.
Continuing on, our next stop was the Holy Trinity Cathedral. This beautiful, stone church was completed in 1894 and was funded by the colonial British government. Fifteen years after its completion, it was deemed a cathedral by the Diocese of Accra.
Having lain my eyes upon many a cathedral in the world, I would say that this one was in no way equal, however, mass was just finishing and the priest warmly welcomed us inside and told us to make ourselves at home. The design was quite interesting with a dark, barrel-vaulted ceiling, a stone-walled interior and red velvet-covered pews, but it was stark in contrast to some of the Italian, Central and South American gilded temples I have set foot in. Nonetheless, it was nice to see the interior and even speak with some of the parishioners who were still gathered outside.
Heading into the Jamestown area, I was hoping that we could tour the Ussher Fort, one of the three forts that Europeans built in the region during the middle of the 17th century. This fort was built by the Dutch and was completed in 1649 and I suspected that we would be able to get some interesting photos in the bright, sunny day. Blaming incorrect internet information, we found the place to be closed, but were still able to sneak a peek at the interior through the barred doorways. Definitely another place for one of my future trips.
After stopping for a cold drink at the colorful Jamestown Cafe, we cut through the area that houses the Makola market. Having seen the market in operation during its peak operations during the week, we found the streets to be relatively deserted…Sundays are really a day of rest for many Ghanaians. A little further, after passing the monument to King Tackie Tawiah, (king of Accra from 1862-1902), we ended up on Independence Avenue with its countless vendors and local market. While Makola was quiet, we found a flurry of activity while hastening our own travels back to our hotel.
Hobbling back to my room, I suddenly realized how much ground we had covered that day. My friend was thrilled to have seen so many interesting sights and met so many interesting people. Me? I was just happy to rediscover one of my favorite African cities!
For more pictures, check out Facebook, Snapping the Globe and Instagram, @snappingtheglobe.
Accra Arts Centre
Address: Prof. John Evans Atta Mills High Street, Accra Ghana
Hours: 0900-1800, daily
Admission: free
Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and Museum
Address: Prof. John Evans Atta Mills High Street, Accra Ghana
Imagining sites that I wanted to experience in South Dakota, it was a given what might top the list (hint…four president’s).
Honestly, I have to admit that I didn’t know much more about other attractions within the state. It was a dream of mine to see those four presidential heads lined up on a rockface in the Black Hills, but anything else I encountered was lagniappe. Those I had spoken to insisted that I not to miss the Crazy Horse memorial, but aside from thinking it was a statue, I didn’t know very much about it or its history.
Upon my departure from Mount Rushmore, I followed my GPS in the direction of Crazy Horse’s address, admiring the stunning natural beauty along the way. A short, 16 miles later, I was pulling onto the premises.
Now, where was this statue?
Was I in for a surprise! Heading inside the welcome center and museum, I learned something, that many of you might laugh at, because I didn’t already know.
Crazy Horse wasn’t merely a statue, but in fact, a massive sculpture being carved from a nearby mountain. Under construction since 1948, the mountain monument, much like Mount Rushmore, will depict Oglala Lakota warrior, Crazy Horse, riding a horse and pointing to his tribal land.
Looking out to Thunderhead Mountain from the viewing deck, I was a bit baffled. I could see that the top part of the mountain was resembling a man looking to the west, but that was about it.
Watching the film offering, I learned that the memorial was being constructed on sacred Lakota land and was commissioned by Henry Standing Bear, a Oglala Lakota chief. Sculpturer Korczak Ziolkowski, a friend of Henry Standing Bear, was chosen to carry out the Lakota’s monumental plans and he and his descendants have worked tirelessly over the years to see it to the finish.
But who was Crazy Horse?
A war leader of the Oglala Lakota, Crazy Horse took on the fight against the United States federal government to stop the encroachments on the territories and way of life of the Lakota people. After surrendering in May 1877, he was fatally wounded while imprisoned at Camp Robinson, Nebraska.
In the 1940s, the world saw the completion of Mount Rushmore in the Black Hills. Henry Standing Bear had learned that a monument to his cousin, Crazy Horse, was being planned for construction in Fort Robinson, Nebraska. Standing Bear, persuaded James Cook, spearheader of the project, to abandon plans so that a monument of spiritual significance to the Lakota people could be constructed on Lakota land and one which would honor his relative.
After acquiescing to Henry Standing Bear’s persuasion to undertake the massive project, Ziolkowski, formulated a plan to create a monument that captured Crazy Horse’s likeness, which depicts the Native American riding his horse, left hand gesturing forward, showing the lands of his ancestors. Today, you can see the completed face and a long smooth piece of granite stretching out before him. There is some etching on the rock walls resembling a horse, however, it was quite difficult to envision what is to come.
I did not have to go far to find the answer. Near where I was standing on the deck, there was a sculpture’s model. As I studied this representation, it was much easier to comprehend the plan. The large scale sculpture on the mountain is planned to be 641 feet long and 563 feet high. The arm of Crazy Horse will be 263 feet long and the head 87 feet high. An impressive feat, it will be the second largest statue in the world behind the Statue of Unity in India.
What still confounded me, however, was that it only took fourteen years to complete Mount Rushmore. After seventy-three years, there was still a great deal to complete here. As I took the shuttle bus tour to the base of the mountain, I learned that no federal money has been accepted from the government. All construction is operated by the Crazy Horse Memorial Foundation, a nonprofit organization, and paid for with funds earned from the Welcome Center and museum and from private donations. The current plan is that in ten years, the arm of Crazy Horse will be complete.
Thinking ahead, I sadly realized that the culmination of this stunning monument will probably not be in my lifetime.
Returning to the Welcome Center, I made my way through its entirety, enjoying each of the museums offered under its roof.
The Indian Museum of North America, created by Korczak Ziolkowski and his wife, Ruth, was constructed to feature American Indian art and artifacts from tribal Nations across North American. The museum itself is an architectural delight, large and airy and built from ponderosa pine, harvested and milled at the Crazy Horse memorial site. Its interior is filled with carvings, paintings, clothing items, canoes, tools, artwork and teepees.
The Mountain Carving Gallery is a tribute to the story of the mountain. Here you can see tools that Korczak used when he began the project, including a half size replica of a wooden basked used with an aerial cable car run by an antique Chevy engine that enabled him to haul equipment and tools up the mountain. It is here that you can also learn more about the phases of carving each of the components of the sculpture. Take heed of the cart in the far corner. Small chunks of granite, gathered and removed from the mountain after blasting, are available for visitors for a small donation. An amazing piece of history that can be passed on to your children and grandchildren!
Another museum, depicts Korczak’s home and studio. After living in a tent for his first seven months, he constructed a log cabin and studio home, so well-built that it still remains part of the Visitor’s Center. His home was filled with antiques and original works of sculpture and these are on display today, including a Marie Antoinette mirror, Louis XVI chairs and carvings of those he admired.
A variety of items are on display in Korczak’s workshop, including wood, bronze, marble and casts. Of particular interest is his wooden toolbox made when he was 18 years old and a full-sized, original Concord Stagecoach, restored by him and his family.
Though the Native American Educational and Cultural Center was not open, I was able to take a peek inside through its glass doors. Hands-on activities and instructions in American Indian history and culture are provided here and it serves as an outlet for artists to sell their work during the busier months of the year. A collection of Edward Curtis photogravure prints of the American West and the Native American peoples are displayed on the lower level as well as an Exhibit of the American Bison, detailing its story from its prehistoric origins in North America to its near extinction.
If taking home a distinctive reminder of your visit is important, do not forget the treasure-filled gift shop with skillfully crafted mementos lining its walls and filling its showcases.
Thankfully, I had arrived with enough time to see all of the museums and the entire premises. Having expected “just a statue” I discovered so much more and walked away with a much greater appreciation for what has been and is being accomplished. Though I will probably never get to see Crazy Horse’s completion before I move on, eventually, through the tireless efforts of the Ziolkowski family, one day, it will stand tall and proud, high above Lakota land…a symbol of courage and heritage.
For more pictures, check out Facebook, Snapping the Globe and Instagram, @snappingtheglobe.
Address: 2151 Avenue of the Chiefs, Crazy Horse, South Dakota 57730
Hours: Welcome Center and The Museums of the Memorial, January 4-March 16, 0900-1700, daily. March 17-May 11, 0800-1900. May 12-May 27, 0800-2000. May 28-September 6, 0800- 30 minutes after laser light show. September 7-October 3, 0800-2000. October 4-October 11. 0800-1800.
Hours: Bus to Base – A closer look of the Mountain from the base, January 4-March 16, 1000-1600. March 17-May 11, 0900-1800. May 12-May 27, 0900-1900. May 28-September 6, 8:30 am – the last boarding 1.5 hours before the Laser Light Show begins. September 7-October 3, 0900-1900. October 4-October 11. 0900-1700.
Admission: January 1-May 27, $30.00, 3 or more people in a vehicle. $24.00, 2 people in a vehicle. $12.00, 1 person in a vehicle. $7.00, per person on a motorcycle, bicycle or walking. May 28-October 11, $35.00, 3 or more people in a vehicle. $30.00, 2 people in a vehicle. $15.00, 1 person in a vehicle. $10.00, per person on a motorcycle, bicycle or walking. No parking fees.
Many soldiers gave their lives in the Battle of Gettysburg.
The battlefield’s landscape is dotted with numerous monuments which commemorate the Union and Confederate troops that fought there. More monuments can be found at the National Cemetery, which together with the battlefield form the Gettysburg National Military Park. Though many of dead soldiers’ souls may still roam the battlefield, it is there, in the cemetery, that you are reminded of who they were from their headstones.
After the Battle of Gettysburg, the toll on both sides consisted of the loss or mortal wounding of 10,000 lives, 30,000 injuries and 10,000 soldiers captured or missing. Because of the mass casualties, most of the deceased soldiers were hastily buried in shallow graves, marked by their names scrawled on wooden crosses. Exposure to the elements began to cause the erosion of the impromptu graves and it was determined that there was an immediate need for proper burials.
The decision was made to build a cemetery, using the site from which the Union center repulsed Pickett’s Charge, and ground was broken four months after the battle on October 27, 1863. Union soldiers were relocated to the cemetery and efforts were eventually made to move the Confederate soldiers’ remains to Virginia, Georgia and the Carolinas, although there are a few that remain in Gettysburg National Cemetery.
Having been to Hollywood Cemetery in Richmond, Virginia, I have seen the graves of these Confederate soldiers. I was anxious to walk around the historic cemetery in Gettysburg to observe any similarities, but I also knew that the Gettysburg National Cemetery was famous for more than gravesites, markers and monuments. There is something that makes this cemetery stand apart from landmarks in the city and other Civil War cemeteries.
On November 19, 1863, at the cemetery’s dedication, President Abraham Lincoln stood among these departed souls and delivered a two-minute address about the sacrifices of war and the necessity of holding the Union together.
The Gettysburg Address.
Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.
Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battle-field of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives that that nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this.
But, in a larger sense, we can not dedicate — we can not consecrate — we can not hallow — this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us — that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion — that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain — that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom — and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth. —Abraham Lincoln, November 19, 1863
As I entered the gates on Taneytown Road, I immediately came upon the podium which was erected for visiting presidents who attend memorial ceremonies. To the right, is Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address Memorial.
The memorial is a semicircular stone monument which includes a bronze bust of the president, sculpted by Henry K. Bush-Brown, and two tablets on either side, one of which highlights the short speech. Though many think that such a profound address would have been inked on many pages, one of the greatest highlights of American history was only ten sentences long.
Though the memorial commemorates the Lincoln and the Gettysburg Address, the location of the great oration actually took place about three hundred yards from this spot, so I headed in that direction determined to find where it took place.
The cemetery is designed as a wide semi-circle with the Soldier’s National Monument at its center. Radiating from the monument are sections divided by state; smaller states closest to the monument and larger states along the outside. The Soldier’s National Monument, designed by the Batterson-Canfield Company is a mighty granite shaft rising from a four cornered pedestal and bearing sculptures crafted by Randolph Rogers representing war, history, plenty and peace. Glancing to the top of the shaft is the statue, “Genius of Liberty”, crowning its peak. The monument is notable as being near the location of the dais of the dedication ceremony where Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address. Numerous smaller monuments also dot the cemetery’s landscape, including a memorial to the Union soldiers of New York and a monument to Major General John F. Reynolds.
Soldier’s National MonumentMemorial to the Union soldiers of New York and Monument to Major General John F. Reynolds
As I made my way around the grand monument and then the remainder of the cemetery, I encountered impeccable funerary grounds, maintained by the National Park Service, with a landscape dotted with cannons, concrete pathways and marble headstones.
As I reverently made my way through the premises, I discovered that although the majority of the graves accommodate the remains of Union Soldiers, the government later added sections for veterans from the Spanish-American War, World Wars I and II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War, bringing the total of veterans that are laid to rest here to more than 6,000.
When I first entered the grounds, the rain which had started during my tour of the battlefield had slowed to a hazy mist. The gloaming of the late afternoon, in addition, added to the sobering realization of just what I was surrounded by.
Not only is it a place where a speech of great magnitude was articulated by one of the greatest men in our country’s history, but it is a place where immeasurable bravery and patriotism was laid to rest. It is a place where we were reminded by President Lincoln why our great country was worth fighting for. A hallowed ground…not only for the lives lost, but the lives that continued and still continue on.
In this election year, it is important to remember the vision of our founding fathers, the lives that were given to bring our country to where it is today and to enjoy the freedoms that we have been given.
For more pictures, check out Facebook, Snapping the Globe and Instagram, @snappingtheglobe.
The port city of New Bedford, Massachusetts, has been the home of countless fisherman for thousands of years.
While I love sailing in and out of this port when traveling to Cuttyhunk Island, I haven’t had much of an opportunity to see what makes up the city itself.
Known as the “The Whaling City” due to its importance in the whaling industry during the nineteenth century, there is a wonderful museum which focuses on the history of the trade. Though I would have loved to have visited this institution, the Covid restrictions had closed it down until further notice.
I wasn’t in town for long…only as long as it took to get groceries and board our boat which was to take us to Cuttyhunk. As I stood guard over our belongings at the New Bedord State Pier, my friends brought over load after load destined for our stay on the island. My attention wandered from the multitude of fishing boats lining the harbor to the occasional passerby. As I finally took a turn carrying one of the many bags from the car, I noticed a statue on the edge of the pier. Taking a quick walk over, I noted the plaque set into the concrete.
The statue, which honors the fishermen of the Port of New Bedford, was installed in this spot on June 30, 2016 and designed by sculptor Erik Durant. The installation depicts the scene of a fishing family consisting of a mother standing near her fisherman husband, who is down on one knee. He holds his daughter in his lap, accepting her hugs, and has his hand on the shoulder of his son, who holds a crew cap.
The monument is quite moving and it is evident that it is one that most families of the area can relate to. With a little research, I learned that the passing of the cap to the son signifies the continuation of the fishing tradition and the clinging daughter represents the regret of the separation that the family has when the father is away. The woman stands behind the father and the children, representing those who stay behind while the fisherman are at sea.
So, I didn’t get to take a quick tour of the whaling museum, however, I stumbled upon something more significant.
One that represents the fishermen of both the past and present.
For more pictures, check out Facebook, Snapping the Globe and Instagram, @snappingtheglobe.
The Fisherman’s Monument
Address: 49 State Pier, New Bedford, Massachusetts, 02740
I have driven this stretch of roadway many times, heading to the mountains to ski, to my son’s baseball games, to college visits, to pick apples in the fall and to visit friends.
When driving, scenic pull-overs always grab my attention. I love to stop and see why it would warrant someone’s attention.
One such stop, on Interstate 64 eastbound, near Afton Mountain (between mile markers 103 and 104), offers more than just beautiful views of the adjacent Blue Ridge Mountains and Albermarle and Nelson counties.
Constructed in 2004, with $168,000 in donations from VDOT workers and family members, the VDOT (Virginia Department of Transportation) Workers’ Memorial and Scenic Overlook is a place for family members, friends and colleagues to reflect on the loss of their loved ones who have lost their lives while performing their jobs as state highway transportation workers.
The Virginia Department of Transportation was established in 1906 and since its inception, many workers lives have been lost while carrying forth the responsibilities of their jobs, many in . work zone incidents. The names of 134 employees who have died between 1928 and 2012 are engraved on the memorial in random columns.
The thirteen foot high memorial’s design shows three profiles of workers wearing hard hats cut into black, white and gray granite. These layers of granite depict the diversity of VDOT’s employees and the open profile at one end represents a “missing” worker. While looking through this “missing” worker, visitors can see the scenic view, while enjoying the surrounding wildflowers and daylilies.
If you are heading through beautiful Virginia, take a few minutes to pull over, enjoy the view and pay your respects to those who made the highway you are traveling on possible. And if you see workers along the way…
Slow down!
For more pictures, check out Facebook, Snapping the Globe and Instagram, @snappingtheglobe.
Sometimes you set out to find landmarks. Sometimes they find you.
As I was walking across the river onto Unter den Linden, I came across an intriguing structure.
Drawn in by its classicist style fronted with a row of columns and a gable frieze, I walked closer to inspect the sandstone-colored building topped with the goddess of victory.
Stepping onto the portico, I peered inside the dimly lit interior, anxious to see what significance this building had.
In the center, illuminated by the light of an aperture above is a mother embracing her dead son.
The statue, Mother With The Dead Son, by Käthe Kollwitz is extremely touching in its simplicity, honoring those victims of war and tyranny in Germany.
Originally a memorial designed by Prussian master builder, Karl Friedrich Schinkel, his first work in Berlin, the New Guard (Neue Wache) building was designed to honor those who died in the Napoleonic Wars and the Wars of Liberation. The structure also served as a guardhouse for the royal guard until the end of the monarchy in 1918.
In 1931, a memorial for the fallen soldiers of the World War was created here by Heinrich Tessenow, however, it was severely damaged by bombings during the Second World War.
After restorations in 1960, the building has come to serve as a memorial to the victims of fascism and militarism. An eternal flame was placed in the center of the structure and in 1969, the remains of an unknown soldier and an unknown concentration camp prisoner were buried here, marked by a commemorative plaque.
Today, you can venture here any time of day to pay homage to those who gave their lives during wartime as well as inspect an important piece of sculpture. Try to visit on Wednesdays, when the Great Guard of Honor gathers in front of the memorial to march the length of the facade.
For more pictures, check out Facebook, Snapping the Globe and Instagram, @snappingtheglobe.
Several Soviet Memorials are located in Berlin, erected to commemorate its fallen soldiers.
As we drove through the city, on the way to our hotel, we passed one of the memorials, the Tiergarten.
A colleague of mine, of Russian descent, was very excited to see that the monument was not far from some of the other landmarks we had planned to visit later that day. Having been to Berlin a few times before, I was actually surprised to see that it was located just down the road from the Brandenburg Gate. Maybe I had seen it and did not realized its significance or maybe I was asleep during the bus tour, but I was excited that I would be able to visit something new and share it with someone that it meant something to.
After our visit to the Brandenburg Gate, we headed west on Strasse des 17 Juni (17 June Street) and found ourselves at the entrance of the memorial which is located in the Großer Tiergarten, a large public park and a place where Adolf Hitler had plans to build Welthauptstadt Germania. Impressively flanked by two Red Army ML-20 152mm gun-howitzer artillery pieces and two T-34 tanks, the notable monument, a curved stoa, is topped by a towering statue of a Soviet soldier, whose arm is in a position to symbolize the Red Army’s putting down of the Nazi German state. A Cyrillic inscription under the soldier translates into “Eternal glory to heroes who fell in battle with the German fascist invaders for the freedom and independence of the Soviet Union”.
My friend, reading as we walked, explained that the monument was erected to commemorate the 80,000 soldiers of the Soviet Armed Forces who died during the Battle of Berlin in April and May 1945. It was constructed in 1945, within a few months of the capture of the city, and built from stonework taken from the destroyed Reich Chancellery.
As we walked to the rear of the property, we discovered an outdoor museum which highlighted the memorial’s construction and offered a look into the city’s other memorials.
Though the memorial has special meaning to those such as my friend and the many who make pilgrimages from various Soviet countries, there are those, however, who still oppose the monument. The structure has suffered at the hands of vandals and has earned some harsh nicknames, such as “Tomb of the Unknown Rapist” which references one of the various crimes committed by the Soviet occupation troops.
The Tiergarten was a surprise for me. Not one of the major attractions of Berlin, I had not planned to include it in my day, however, I was excited to learn more through my visit with my Russian friend.
As we walked the property, admiring the tanks, a bunny hopped out from the bushes. A short while later, a fox surprised us as he emerged from the same bushes. Was the fox searching for the bunny? Though the fatalities of the war ended many years ago, this was a reminder of how things once were…when there were those who were pursued and killed…
Though there are two other Soviet memorials in Berlin, commemorating the fallen, Treptower Park and Schonholzer Heide, make sure to check out the oldest and most conveniently located…Tiergarten.
For more pictures, check out Facebook, Snapping the Globe and Instagram, @snappingtheglobe.
After our visit to the Brandenburg Gate, we headed west on Strasse des 17 Juni (17 June Street) and found ourselves at the entrance of the memorial which is located in the Großer Tiergarten, a large public park and a place where Adolf Hitler had plans to build Welthauptstadt Germania. Impressively flanked by two Red Army ML-20 152mm gun-howitzer artillery pieces and two T-34 tanks, the notable monument, a curved stoa, is topped by a towering statue of a Soviet soldier, whose arm is in a position to symbolize the Red Army’s putting down of the Nazi German state. A Cyrillic inscription under the soldier translates into “Eternal glory to heroes who fell in battle with the German fascist invaders for the freedom and independence of the Soviet Union”.
As we walked the property, admiring the tanks, a bunny hopped out from the bushes. A short while later, a fox surprised us as he emerged from the same bushes. Was the fox searching for the bunny? Though the fatalities of the war ended many years ago, this was a reminder of how things once were…when there were those who were pursued and killed…