Ohio is a state rich in history and filled with unique and unusual monuments that tell the stories of its past. Whether you’re a history buff, a curious traveler, or simply looking for an interesting road trip destination, Ohio’s monuments offer a fascinating glimpse into its heritage. From tributes to famous individuals to commemorations of significant events, here are 14 must-see monuments in Ohio that stand out for their uniqueness.
John Brown Monument
About: This monument commemorates John Brown, an abolitionist whose raid on Harpers Ferry was a pivotal moment leading up to the American Civil War. Now located on a hill above the Akron Zoo, it serves as a reminder of his fierce opposition to slavery and his role in the fight for freedom.
Address: 500 Edgewood Ave, Akron, OH 44307
More Info: Summit County Historical Society
Ashtabula Bridge Disaster Monument
About: This monument remembers the tragic Ashtabula River Railroad Disaster of 1876, one of the deadliest train disasters in American history. It honors the 92 people who lost their lives when the bridge collapsed under the weight of a train.
Address: Chestnut St, Ashtabula, OH 44004
More Info: Engineering Tragedy: The Ashtabula Train Disaster
Jesse Owens Statue
About: Located on the Ohio State University campus, this statue honors Jesse Owens, the track and field athlete who won four gold medals in the 1936 Berlin Olympics. The statue celebrates his legacy as one of the greatest athletes in history and a symbol of triumph over adversity.
Address: 281 W Lane Ave, Columbus, OH 43210
More Info: Jesse Owens Statue
Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument
About: This iconic monument in Cleveland commemorates the Civil War soldiers and sailors from Cuyahoga County. Standing in Public Square, it features a 125-foot column and a series of bronze relief sculptures depicting various war scenes.
Address: 3 Public Square, Cleveland, OH 44114
More Info: Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument
The Starting Point of the U.S. Public Land Survey
About: This historical marker in East Liverpool designates the starting point for the survey of public lands in the United States. Established in 1785, it marks the beginning of the country’s systematic land surveys and settlement.
Address: 1120 Harvey Ave, East Liverpool, OH 43920
More Info: The Starting Point of the U.S. Public Land Survey
Leatherlips Monument
About: This intriguing sculpture in Dublin is dedicated to the Wyandot Chief Leatherlips. The monument pays tribute to Leatherlips’ legacy and his efforts to promote peace between Native Americans and settlers.
Address: 7377 Riverside Dr, Dublin, OH 43017
More Info: Dublin Arts Council
Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial
Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial
About: Located on South Bass Island, this monument honors Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry’s victory in the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812. It also celebrates lasting peace between Britain, Canada, and the U.S. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from the observation deck.
Address: 93 Delaware Ave, Put-In-Bay, OH 43456
More Info: National Park Service
Neil Armstrong First Flight Memorial
About: This monument in Warren commemorates Neil Armstrong, the first person to walk on the moon. It celebrates his historic achievement and is located near his hometown, featuring a replica of the lunar module.
Address: 2553 Parkman Rd NW, Warren, OH 44485
More Info: First Flight Warren
William McKinley Memorial
About: In Canton, this impressive memorial and museum honor the 25th President of the United States, William McKinley. The structure includes a large domed mausoleum where McKinley and his family are entombed.
Address: 800 McKinley Monument Dr NW, Canton, OH 44708
More Info: McKinley Presidential Library & Museum
The Haserot Angel
About: Located in Cleveland’s Lake View Cemetery, the Haserot Angel is a hauntingly beautiful monument known for its lifelike appearance and the eerie effect of tears running down its face. It marks the grave of Francis Haserot and has become a popular spot for cemetery visitors.
Address: 12316 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44106
More Info: Lake View Cemetery
President William Henry Harrison’s Monument and Tomb
About: This monument in North Bend honors the 9th President of the United States, William Henry Harrison. The tomb and obelisk are situated on a scenic hill overlooking the Ohio River, offering a serene place to reflect on Harrison’s brief presidency.
Address: 35 Cliff Rd, North Bend, OH 45052
More Info: William Henry Harrison Tomb
President Warren G. Harding’s Tomb
About: In Marion, Ohio, this tomb marks the final resting place of the 29th President of the United States, Warren G. Harding, and his wife, Florence. The monument is a grand white marble structure, reflecting Harding’s prominent status.
Address: Harding Memorial Pkwy, Marion, OH 43302
More Info: Harding Presidential Sites
Merchant Ball
About: This unique spherical monument in Marion’s Historical Marion Cemetery is a beautiful plot marker for the Merchant Family. Built in 1886, the Merchant Ball is an intricately designed granite sphere that rotates.
Address: 620 Delaware Ave, Marion, OH 43302
More Info: Historic Marion Cemetery
James A. Garfield Memorial and Tomb
About: This stunning monument in Lake View Cemetery, Cleveland, honors the 20th President of the United States, James A. Garfield. The memorial includes a 180-foot-tall tower and a crypt where Garfield and his family are entombed.
Address: 12316 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44106
More Info: Lake View Cemetery
