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Springfield, Illinois: Race Riot Memorial

A deadly race riot swept Springfield in 1908. Over a hundred years later two stark "ruined chimneys" were erected as a memorial -- but they were engraved with hopeful images, including Barack Obama as a drum major.

Address:
N. 6th St., Springfield, IL
Directions:
Downtown. In the park on the west side of N. 6th St., between Madison and Jefferson Sts, just across the street from the Abraham Lincoln Museum.
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Obama as drum major.

Race Riot Memorial

Located across the street from the Lincoln Library, the northern chimney features Barrack Obama as a drum major.

[Joe L, 04/05/2015]

The two charred appearing chimneys represent the ruins left after race riots in Springfield on Aug. 14 and 15th, 1908. The relief carvings on the chimneys represent the evolution of race relations.

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Nearby Offbeat Places

Abraham Lincoln Presidential MuseumAbraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, Springfield, IL - < 1 mi.
Abe Lincoln Pixel MuralAbe Lincoln Pixel Mural, Springfield, IL - < 1 mi.
Departure Point Of The Donner PartyDeparture Point Of The Donner Party, Springfield, IL - < 1 mi.
In the region:
Statue of Richard Pryor, Peoria, IL - 61 mi.

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