Senator William B. Allison Memorial, West Des Moines Travel Guide

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A historical landmark in Des Moines honoring Iowa's Senator William B. Allison, featuring symbolic sculptures and serene surroundings.

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Senator William B. Allison Memorial

The Senator William B. Allison Memorial in Des Moines, Iowa, honors the life and career of William B. Allison, a pivotal figure in Iowa's Republican party who served in Congress for 43 years. Designed by Evelyn B. Longman, the monument features symbolic sculptures representing knowledge, peace, and the republic.

A brief summary to Senator William B. Allison Memorial

Des Moines, East Village, Iowa, 50319, US

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Senator William B. Allison Memorial.

Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
Take time to read the inscriptions around the memorial to fully appreciate Senator Allison's contributions.
Combine your visit with a stroll through the nearby East Village for shopping and dining options.
Bring a picnic to enjoy in the adjacent park area while soaking in the historical ambiance.

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Explore Senator William B. Allison Memorial on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Senator William B. Allison Memorial, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From anywhere in the East Village, head towards the Iowa State Capitol building. The Senator William B. Allison Memorial is located on the grounds, south of the Capitol, on East Walnut Street. Look for the distinctive monument featuring sculptures and inscriptions.
Public Transport

From various points in Des Moines, use the DART (Des Moines Area Regional Transit) bus service to reach the Capitol area. Several bus routes serve the area near the Iowa State Capitol. Check the DART website or app for specific routes and schedules. A single ride costs $1.75.
Driving

From I-235, take an exit towards downtown Des Moines and follow signs to the Iowa State Capitol. Parking is available in the area, including city-owned parking garages. Rates in city-owned garages are typically $1 per hour with a $10 maximum per day. Metered street parking is also available, costing $1.25 per hour in the East Village.

Discover more about Senator William B. Allison Memorial

The Senator William B. Allison Memorial, located in the East Village of Des Moines, stands as a tribute to William B. Allison, a prominent Iowa politician who served in the U.S. Congress for 43 years. Allison, who lived from 1829 to 1908, was a two-time candidate for the presidential nomination and a close associate of U.S. presidents from Abraham Lincoln to Theodore Roosevelt.The memorial was erected in 1917 by friends, citizens, schoolchildren of Iowa, and the state legislature. Designed by Evelyn B. Longman, in collaboration with Henry Bacon, who was the architect for the Lincoln Memorial, the monument features a central plaque of Allison flanked by sculptures symbolizing "Knowledge" and "Peace". These are further accompanied by symbols of “Legislature” and “Financial Prosperity,” and “Humanity” and “Agricultural Prosperity”. The topmost figure represents “The Republic”.The Allison Memorial Commission aimed to create a memorial that reflected artistic tastes and honored Allison's contributions. The monument serves as a reminder of Allison's impact on Iowa and the nation, particularly his work on agricultural issues and his dedication to public service. Visitors can appreciate the historical ambiance and reflect on Iowa's past while exploring the memorial and its surroundings.