NE Franklin News

Mayor Andrew J. Ginther, Columbus veterans, the Ohio National Guard, and community partners have come together to rededicate the Linden War Memorial at its new location in Linden Park. This event honors Linden veterans who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

The memorial was first dedicated in 1919 and had undergone several changes at its previous site on Cleveland Avenue. With Columbus and the Linden community expanding, and after being damaged twice by vehicles, it was decided that a safer location was necessary.

The Columbus Department of Development's Planning Division worked with local veterans to find a new site within Linden Park. This move aims to provide safer access and ensure that remembrances can continue for future generations.

“Our veterans deserve our utmost respect and gratitude for defending our safety and the freedoms we cherish,” stated Mayor Ginther. “While no monument or memorial can ever bring back the loved ones we’ve lost, we must continue to ensure their lives and sacrifices are never forgotten – and properly honor their legacy in ways that are befitting their service, bravery and courage.”

Efforts to relocate and restore the monument began in 2022. These efforts included researching stone pieces, surveying potential sites, coordinating with local veterans, and retrieving parts of the monument thought to be lost. In May 2024, Columbus City Council approved $90,000 for these activities. Additionally, Columbus Realtors secured a grant for the concrete slab while Columbus Memorials undertook stone restoration.