James A. Garfield Memorial- Cleveland, OH

Poor James Garfield. Although he was elected the 20th president of the United States, his term was a mere 200 days. He was done in by a disgruntled and disturbed Charles J. Guiteau, who was salty he didn’t receive a political appointment. Garfield actually survived the shooting on July 2, 1881; however, he did not survive the search for the bullet, which involved probing, unwashed fingers inside the wound. Two agonizing months passed before he succumbed to a massive infection on September 19, 1881.

Although he was shot at the Baltimore and Potomac Railroad Station in Washington, DC, and died in Elberon, New Jersey, it was his home state of Ohio that rallied to build him a memorial fit for a king. Or at least a full term president. Almost immediately, funds were collected to build a magnificent monument to the fallen president; ultimately, over $135,000 was donated, including pennies from schoolchildren.

Designed by architect George Keller in the Romanesque, Gothic, and Byzantine styles, construction began in Cleveland’s Lake View Cemetery on October 6, 1885. Crafted from Ohio Berea Sandstone, the stately 180 foot tall tomb was entirely funded through private donations. Obscenely detailed inside and out, it was a beautiful tribute to the slain politician. On the exterior, five terra cotta panels, with over 100 life sized figures, depict various aspects of Garfield’s life. Inside, stained glass windows represent the original 13 colonies. Above, a stunning Venetian gold and glass mosaic dome.

In the center of the room stands Alexander Doyle’s magnificent 12 foot tall Carrara marble statue of President Garfield. Doyle himself was an Ohio native, who went on to study sculpting at several prestigious academies in Italy. Known as one of the most prominent sculptors of the era, his works can be found across the country, including at the United States Capitol.

Beneath the memorial lies the flag draped crypt of President Garfield, along with his wife’s, Lucretia. Joining them, the ashes of his daughter and son-in-law. Above, 64 steps up from the statue, a fabulous outdoor balcony, with a magnificent view of Cleveland’s skyline, as well as Lake Erie.

So, while President Garfield may not be known for his actions while in office, he will continue to be remembered for his fabulous memorial. I dare say he receives more visitors in death than many other, more popular presidents. Although his last days on earth may have been horrible, his remains are certainly spending eternity in style.

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