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Home » News » Visit the Famous Monuments and Statues of Plymouth
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March 15, 2025
Plymouth, MA is a town steeped in history, and there are an abundance of statues that you can visit to get a glimpse of the past. From honoring the Native Americans and the Pilgrims to remembering those lost on 9/11, these monuments teach us to take a moment to reflect on what we have and where we came from. The next time you’re in Plymouth, be sure to put these statues on your itinerary.
Standing at an impressive 81 feet tall, the National Monument to the Forefathers is one of Plymouth’s most striking and significant landmarks. Dedicated in 1889, this towering granite statue pays tribute to the values of the Pilgrims, including Faith, Morality, Law, Education, and Liberty. As one of the largest solid granite monuments in the world, it is an awe-inspiring sight that offers visitors a glimpse into the ideals that guided the Pilgrims in their journey to the New World. A piece of Plymouth Rock is even housed inside the statue, further cementing its roots in Plymouth’s history.
Located in Pilgrim Memorial State Park, the Pilgrim Mother Statue honors the women of the Mayflower who endured the hardships of settling in a new land. A gift from the Daughters of the American Revolution in 1921, this elegant statue symbolizes the strength, resilience, and sacrifices of the Pilgrim women who helped establish the Plymouth Colony. It’s a moving tribute that reminds visitors of the often-overlooked role women played in America’s early history.
Sarcophagi aren’t just for Egyptian pharaohs. You can find one right on Cole’s Hill. The Pilgrim Sarcophagus holds the remains of some of the earliest settlers of the Plymouth Colony. Many Pilgrims perished during the harsh winter of 1620-1621, and their graves were initially unmarked to protect the colony’s fragile security. This granite tomb, dedicated in 1920, serves as a final resting place for those brave individuals and offers visitors a poignant reminder of the colony’s struggles and perseverance.
One of Plymouth’s most famous statues, the Massasoit Statue pays homage to the Wampanoag leader who allied with the Pilgrims in 1621. Created by renowned sculptor Cyrus Dallin and unveiled in 1921, the statue stands atop Cole’s Hill, overlooking Plymouth Harbor. It serves as a tribute to the crucial role Massasoit played in ensuring the survival of the Plymouth Colony and represents the complex history between Native Americans and European settlers.
A central figure in Plymouth’s history, Governor William Bradford led the colony through its early years and documented its history in his famous work, Of Plymouth Plantation. His statue, located in Pilgrim Memorial State Park, captures his leadership and unwavering faith. As visitors stand before this monument, they gain insight into the dedication and perseverance required to establish one of America’s first successful colonies.
The Plymouth Immigrant Memorial recognizes the generations of immigrants who followed in the Pilgrims’ footsteps, seeking freedom and opportunity in America. Unveiled in 2001, this contemporary monument features a series of bronze statues that depict immigrants arriving in Plymouth over the centuries. It serves as a reminder that the American story is one of continuous migration and cultural diversity, making it a must-visit site for those interested in the broader narrative of U.S. history.
One of Plymouth’s lesser-known but deeply significant sites, Parting Ways Cemetery is the final resting place of four African American Revolutionary War veterans. These men, once enslaved, gained their freedom and established a community near Plymouth. The cemetery and its monument stand as a testament to their service and contributions to America’s fight for independence. Visiting this site offers a unique and important perspective on the diverse histories that make up Plymouth’s past.
A more recent addition to Plymouth’s historical landscape, the Plymouth 9/11 Memorial Monument pays tribute to the victims of the September 11, 2001, attacks. Located at the waterfront, this solemn memorial features a section of steel from the World Trade Center and serves as a place of reflection and remembrance. It connects Plymouth’s distant past with contemporary history, reminding visitors of the enduring spirit of resilience and unity.
Plymouth’s statues and monuments are more than just historical markers; they’re powerful symbols of the trials and tribulations of the past and the perseverance that got us where we are today. Whether you’re tracing the steps of the Pilgrims, honoring Native American heritage, or reflecting on more recent history, these sites offer a meaningful journey through time. Plan your visit to Plymouth and experience firsthand the rich history captured in these remarkable monuments.
