Swarthmore Veterans Memorial
The War Memorial has long stood as a place of remembrance for those from our community who served their country. Originally dedicated in 1920 to honor residents who served in World War I, additional plaques were added to commemorate those who lost their lives in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam.
Now, more than a century after its creation, we are working with the Borough and other local community partners to repair its physical condition, create a welcoming and accessible public space, and rename it as the Swarthmore Veterans Memorial in honor of all who have served. Thank you for supporting this important effort!
Honoring a Community Legacy
The War Memorial once stood outside Swarthmore’s old Borough Hall. When Borough Hall was destroyed by fire in 1950, the memorial was relocated in the early 1960s to its current site at Park and Dartmouth Avenues, where it remains today. However, the memorial is showing signs of disrepair; the bronze plaques are oxidized and loose and pavers are uneven and broken. In addition, the site is difficult for visitors, including veterans and their families, to approach safely.
The renewed memorial will:
Restore and preserve the original plaques on the memorial.
Add ADA-accessible walkways and seating that invites reflection and ceremony.
Incorporate granite benches, bluestone paving, landscaping, and lighting to create a welcoming and contemplative public space.
Include a bronze plaque that tells the memorial’s story, from its 1920 dedication as the War Memorial to its rededication as the Swarthmore Veterans Memorial.
Create opportunities to share the stories of Swarthmore residents who have served and sacrificed.
A Collaborative Effort
The project is being led by the Swarthmore Centennial Foundation in partnership with the Borough of Swarthmore, Swarthmore Town Center, Inc. and the Swarthmore Horticultural Society, and local architect Doug Harnsberger of Legacy Architecture, LLC.
Project Timeline
Fall 2025: Final Design and Approvals
Winter 2025-2026: Fabrication of granite and professional restoration of plaques
Spring 2026: Site preparation and construction
Memorial Day 2026: Rededication of the Memorial
