Located on Veterans' Memorial Plaza in downtown Cleveland, Ohio, the Fountain of Eternal Life (also known as the War Memorial Fountain) offers you a powerful space for reflection. Dedicated on May 30, 1964, this poignant monument honors Greater Clevelanders who served, died, or were declared missing in military service. Designed by Marshall Fredericks, a graduate of the Cleveland Institute of Art, the memorial stands as a moving tribute to peace and sacrifice within the Cleveland Mall.
When you visit, you will see a striking 35-foot bronze figure representing mankind rising from the flames of war and reaching skyward toward eternal peace. This central figure emerges from a bronze sphere representing Earth and towers 46 feet above the basin. Surrounding the sphere, you can admire four detailed granite carvings that represent the geographic civilizations of the world.
As you walk along the fountain's polished granite rim, take time to view the bronze plates bearing 5,552 names of fallen service members. These honor roll names encompass conflicts ranging from the Spanish–American War to the Iraq War. Funded through $250,000 in donations raised by the Cleveland Press, this restored downtown landmark provides a meaningful look at local history, art, and remembrance.
What to see at Fountain of Eternal Life
- 35-foot bronze central figure reaching skyward for eternal peace
- Bronze sphere representing Earth with four granite civilization carvings
- Polished granite rim featuring bronze plates with 5,552 honored names
- Sculpture designed by Cleveland Institute of Art graduate Marshall Fredericks
Visiting tips
Take time to walk around the polished granite rim to read the bronze honor roll plates commemorating local service members.
How long: 30-60 minutes · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Fountain of Eternal Life is easy to reach on Cleveland’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Cleveland Museum of Art and Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Cleveland travel guide.
See the full Cleveland travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.