Victory Memorial Drive is a 3.8-mile stretch extending north along Theodore Wirth Parkway from Lowry Avenue North to 45th Avenue North and east to Humboldt Avenue North and the entrance of Webber Park.
On June 11, 1921, more than 30,000 people lined the route of Victory Memorial Drive to witness the dedication ceremonies. Wooden flagpoles, 907 elm trees and 516 wooden markers inscribed with the names and ranks of the fallen soldiers were dedicated.
A number of changes to Victory Memorial Drive have occurred since the dedication ceremony. The original wooden flagpole was replaced by a bronze pole in 1923; the wooden markers, intended to only be temporary, were replaced with bronze markers in the form of crosses (for Christian soldiers) and stars of David (for Jewish solders). The original Moline elm trees did not fare well in the Minnesota climate and were gradually replaced with hackberry trees. A bronze statue of Abraham Lincoln was donated in 1929, and granite walls and plaques were added in 1948. In 1954, the commemorative crosses and stars were embedded into the ground to avoid damage and theft.
In 2009, Victory Memorial Drive underwent alterations which included the installation of the Gateway Monument at the northeast entrance at Humboldt Avenue North, and pedestrian improvements including closing of select vehicle cuts, placement of sidewalks, and expansion of trails. Additional vegetation planting and installation of new light posts near pathways were also completed. The Flagpole Plaza was replaced and included new paving and stone benches. Additionally, commemorative interpretive elements, including the Civil War cenotaph, were installed for the Grand Army of the Republic circle near the Abraham Lincoln statue, where new gardens and walkways were placed.
This tour is led by Bob Roscoe, whose professional experience includes over three decades of architectural work as principal of Design for Preservation. In addition, he has served on the Minneapolis Heritage Preservation Commission, organized threatened building rescues, and provided leadership in various public preservation activities.