Seventh Regiment Memorial – Central Park, New York

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Along the eastern path of Central Park, near East 69th Street, stands a solemn and dignified tribute to the brave men of New York’s Seventh Regiment who sacrificed their lives during the American Civil War. The Seventh Regiment Memorial, also known as the New York Seventh Regiment Monument, is a poignant reminder of the personal cost of war and the quiet heroism of ordinary soldiers.

This bronze sculpture was created by John Quincy Adams Ward, one of the most prominent American sculptors of the 19th century. It was unveiled in 1874 and commissioned by the Seventh Regiment themselves as a tribute to their fallen comrades. The statue’s realism and understated elegance make it one of the earliest and most important examples of Civil War memorials in New York City.

Seventh Regiment Memorial – Central Park, New York
Seventh Regiment Memorial – Central Park, New York


The sculpture depicts a lone infantryman standing at rest, dressed in the uniform of the Union Army. His stance is relaxed yet alert. He holds his rifle vertically in front of him, both hands resting atop the muzzle in a pose that conveys discipline and contemplation rather than aggression. His head is slightly bowed, and his gaze directed forward, not triumphantly, but reflectively, as if mourning the lives lost in battle.

The detailing of the statue is precise and naturalistic. The folds of his greatcoat, the strap crossing his chest, and the military cap are all sculpted with fidelity to the era's military attire. A short cape drapes over his shoulders, and his stance is steady, balanced by one leg slightly ahead of the other, grounding the figure in a quiet nobility.

The bronze figure is mounted on a granite pedestal, which bears the names of battles in which the Seventh Regiment participated and dedicatory inscriptions. The simplicity of the base ensures the soldier remains the emotional and visual focus.

What sets this statue apart from more grandiose war memorials is its lack of overt symbolism or allegory. There are no flags, eagles, or angels;  just a solitary soldier rendered with grace and respect, allowing visitors to connect directly with the individual sacrifice behind the broader historical narrative.

The Seventh Regiment, composed primarily of volunteers from New York City’s elite social circles, played a crucial role during the early days of the Civil War. They were among the first units to respond to President Lincoln’s call for troops and quickly became known for their discipline and gallantry.

How to Reach

The Seventh Regiment Memorial is located along East Drive near 69th Street, just inside the Fifth Avenue entrance to Central Park. It lies close to the path between the Conservatory Water and the Arsenal.

Location: Central Park, New York
Year Installed: 1874
Sculptor: John Quincy Adams Ward
Material: Bronze on granite pedestal

Subject: Memorial to the fallen soldiers of the Seventh Regiment, New York 

Happy travelling.


Other Monuments and Statues in New York

Location: Central Park, New York, NY, USA

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