The Sconi

Building on the success of Hartford's first Veterans Monument, a group of residents has initiated a fundraising campaign for a second monument in Veterans Park on Railroad Row. This new monument will honor local veterans from the Korean, Vietnam, and post-1975 eras.

The original monument, which honors WWI and WWII veterans, was unveiled on Memorial Day 2024 with significant community support. Since then, there has been a strong desire among Hartford residents to recognize later generations of veterans.

The new monument will be similar in design to the original—constructed of granite with bronze plaques—and will be located about 40 feet beyond the first. It will include the last remaining cast iron eagle from Hartford’s original WWI memorial, donated by the Hartford Historical Society. A surrounding brick path will feature engraved honor bricks available for tribute to veterans or other special individuals.

The total project cost is over $70,000. With major support already secured from the Jack and Dorothy Byrne Foundation and pledges of donated labor from local contractors, the committee aims to raise an additional $30,000 to complete the project.

The fundraising campaign runs through August 31, 2025. Community members can contribute by mailing checks to the Hartford Historical Society or donating online at GoFundMe or Fundraising Brick websites.

"This is a challenging year for fundraising," said a representative from the committee. "We are relying on our local businesses more than ever." Local businesses that make generous donations will be recognized with a permanent “thank you” brick in the walkway leading to the new monument and their business names will appear in printed materials and social media pages as recognition for their support.

Donations are tax-deductible through the Hartford Historical Society, a nonprofit organization. Every contribution supports construction, installation, and ongoing care of the monument.

For more information, contact the Hartford Monument Committee at ww1monument@gmail.com

"Together, we can ensure that all eras of service are recognized and remembered."