Atlantic City, NJ, World War I Monument: Stuff You May Not Know

Atlantic City, New Jersey’s impressive World War I Memorial Monument was built in 1922 and dedicated in 1923.

The City of Atlantic City decided in 1907 to build a monument. The original concept had nothing at all to do with those who served in the military. Originally, it was part of an Atlantic City beautification plan.

Delays, including America’s entry into World War I, stalled construction of this distinctive — now historic landmark.

The monument was officially placed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1981. To this day, it remains an important symbol of Atlantic City's World War I generation.

Foliowing America’s participation in World War I, the puppies of the Monument was changed to honor those locals who served in World War I.

The Greek Temple Monument Was Built By The City of Atlantic City — It Was Not a Gift From France

Look how beautiful the Monument looks all lit up in red and blue lights. More about this lighting effort a little later in this article.

I don’t know where that rumor started over the years that the Monument was a gift to America from France. This is not true.

However, there is a French-inspired aspect to the World War I, Albany Avenue Monument, which is located at O’Donnell Park.

Inside of the Monument is an incredible nine-foot bronze sculpture, called “Liberty in Distress," that has created by the renowned sculptor Frederick William MacMonnies of France.

The Lighting Up The Monument in Color

It is the vision of Atlantic City 5th Ward Councilwoman Maria Lacca — it looks fantastic.

Mayor Marty Small & Others Gathered Last Night

More Photos

Credit To Former Atlantic City Mayor Jim Whelan

i don’t remember the exact year, however, Jim Whelan may have saved the World War I Monument.

When the old Atlantic City high school was being torn down and rode reconfiguration’s were being engineered on Albany and Atlantic Avenues — it was being considered to disassemble the monument and reassemble it.

This could’ve proved disastrous, because of the age of the structure, there were reasonable concerns that it could be destroyed in this process.

Whelan led a decision not to move the monument, but, instead to move the roadway itself. That was a creative and brilliant call that may have saved the monument from ruination.