1910s St. Louis Confederate Monument Tribute

The Zolnay Confederate Monument, located in St. Louis, Missouri, is a striking example of early 20th-century memorial art. Erected to honor the Confederate soldiers who fought in the Civil War, the monument reflects the complex legacy of this period in American history. Captured between 1910 and 1915, this photograph showcases the work of a Bain News Service photographer, illustrating the monuments design and placement within the city landscape.

Designed by sculptor Charles H. Niehaus, the Zolnay Monument stands as a tribute to the sacrifices made by soldiers from Missouri during the Civil War. The monument was unveiled in 1914, marking a significant moment for the local community and their remembrance of Confederate history. It serves as a reminder of St. Louis’s role during the war, which was marked by divided loyalties. The monument, with its impressive granite base and allegorical figures, not only commemorates the soldiers but also encapsulates the artistic style prevalent during its construction.

This photograph provides a glimpse into the eras public memorialization practices. Monument construction became popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as communities sought to honor their past. The Zolnay Monument fits within this broader trend, highlighting how the Civil Wars memory continued to shape societal views and structures long after the conflict ended.