Veterans Memorial Park

Historic Origins

Established in 1879, this park was originally known as Park Square and later as Merrimack Park. It served as the city's first downtown park and was initially dedicated to Civil War veterans.

Located in the heart of downtown Manchester at the intersection of Elm and Merrimack Streets, the park has evolved significantly over the years.

Memorials and Monuments

In 1985, the park was officially renamed Veterans Memorial Park with the addition of four granite blocks representing veterans of World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.

A prominent Civil War monument, designed by George Keller of Hartford and completed in 1879 at a cost of $22,000, features bronze statues representing different military branches and a central pedestal with inscriptions honoring Manchester's servicemen.

The World War II Veterans Memorial, dedicated in 2009, bears the names of all 12,233 Manchester World War II veterans, with special notation for the 323 who lost their lives during the conflict.

A POW-MIA monument, added in 1991, features a POW-MIA flag flying above a granite monument at the corner of Central and Elm Streets.

Community Space

Veterans Memorial Park serves as a central gathering place for the community, hosting various events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and commemorative ceremonies.

Its location in downtown Manchester makes it easily accessible to residents and visitors alike, providing a space for reflection, recreation, and remembrance.