Peoria Riverfront Museum
Peoria Riverfront Museum: Where Art, Science, and History Converge
Peoria Holocaust Memorial: A Place for Remembrance
A moving memorial in Peoria, Illinois, commemorating the lives lost during the Holocaust and promoting tolerance for future generations.
The Peoria Holocaust Memorial is a moving outdoor tribute located on the Peoria Riverfront Museum grounds. It features 11 million buttons encased in glass structures, each representing a life lost during the Holocaust. The memorial serves as a powerful reminder of the past and promotes tolerance and education.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Peoria Holocaust Memorial
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
123 SW Washington St, Peoria, Illinois, 61602, US
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Getting There
Walking
The Peoria Holocaust Memorial is located at the corner of Washington and Liberty Streets, on the grounds of the Peoria Riverfront Museum. From most points in downtown Peoria, it is easily accessible by foot. From the Peoria Civic Center, walk south on Jefferson Street, then turn right onto Washington Street. The memorial will be on your left, just before you reach Liberty Street. The walk is approximately 10 minutes.
Public Transport
CityLink, the Greater Peoria Mass Transit District, provides bus service throughout Peoria. Several bus routes have stops near the Peoria Riverfront Museum. Check the CityLink website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. A single ride fare is typically $1.
Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxi services like Discount Cab and Yellow Cab, and ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are available in Peoria. A ride from downtown Peoria to the memorial will likely cost between $8 and $15, depending on the company and time of day.
Driving
The Peoria Holocaust Memorial is located at 123 SW Washington St, Peoria, IL 61602. From I-74, take Exit 93 for Washington Street. Metered street parking is available on Main, Liberty, and Water Streets. Visitors can also use the parking garage off Water Street. Contact Public Works at 309-494-8800 for more parking information. Metered parking is enforced from 8 am to 6 pm, Monday through Saturday.
Local tips
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Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for a serene experience as the sunlight enhances the memorial's atmosphere.
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Take your time to explore the engraved panels and inscriptions, allowing for personal contemplation and a deeper understanding of the Holocaust.
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Consider attending the annual Yom HaShoah event for Holocaust Remembrance Day to learn more.
Discover more about Peoria Holocaust Memorial
The Peoria Holocaust Memorial is a deeply impactful outdoor memorial located on the campus of the Peoria Riverfront Museum. It stands as a tribute to the millions of lives lost during the Holocaust. The memorial is open 24/7 and free to the public.The memorial's centerpiece is its collection of 11 million buttons. These buttons are encased within 18 star-shaped glass columns, with 6 million buttons symbolizing the Jewish lives lost. An additional 5 million buttons are held in five glass triangles, representing other victims of Nazi persecution. The button serves as a poignant symbol, representing vulnerability, unity, and the remnants of those who perished.The memorial originated from the 'Button Project,' where children, groups, and individuals collected buttons. Volunteers cleaned and counted each button, contributing to the memorial's creation. The memorial was first unveiled in 2003 at the Shoppes at Grand Prairie before moving to its current location at the Peoria Riverfront Museum in 2017. The location was a 'dream location, a natural fit’.The Peoria Holocaust Memorial serves as a place for reflection, education, and a reminder to stand against bigotry and hatred.
A brief summary to Peoria Holocaust Memorial
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