War Memorial Plaza and Negro Heroes of the U.S. Monument, Baltimore

War Memorial Plaza and Negro Heroes of the U.S. Monument are two significant landmarks in Baltimore that commemorate the contributions and sacrifices of the city's residents in times of war. Built in 1927, War Memorial Plaza stands as a reminder of the 1,769 Marylanders who lost their lives in World War I.

Over the years, the plaza has become a cherished civic space in Baltimore, hosting various political events, concerts, and a popular spot for relaxation. Its central location, in front of Baltimore City Hall, makes it a prominent landmark in the city.

One of the most notable monuments on War Memorial Plaza is the Negro Heroes of the U.S. Monument, also known as the Black Soldier Memorial Statue. The statue was commissioned and dedicated by the City of Baltimore with the financial support of an anonymous donor. It was designed by sculptor James E. Lewis and unveiled on May 30th, 1972.

The statue depicts a soldier holding a wreath and sash. The sash bears a chronology of the wars in which African American soldiers served in the United States military. The monument honors the sacrifices and contributions of African American soldiers throughout the history of the United States.

Initially located on the north side of Battle Monument Park, the Negro Heroes of the U.S. Monument was relocated to War Memorial Plaza, in front of Baltimore City Hall, in 2007, where it stands as a reminder of the city's commitment to honoring its past and recognizing the contributions of all its residents.