PONCA CITY WWI MEMORIAL
In 1925, several years after the end of World War I, the Daughter’s of the American Revolution (DAR) wanted to honor the men and women of Ponca City who served their country during the first World War.
The Ponca City Chapter of the DAR was established in 1918, the same year WWI ended. One of the goals of the DAR was to erect monuments, to create historic spots and to encourage patriotic education. DAR members were anxious to preserve the historical heritage of Ponca City.
In 1925, located on the plaza in front of City Hall at 5th and Grand, a fountain with colorful electric lighting and a bronze marker with the names of Ponca City 293 military men and women had been proposed. Included in the listing would be the overseas nurses and the 5 men who were killed.
The fund drive to raise $5,500 was launched by 20 DAR women in March of 1925. Success was assured in mid-April. Donations from 2 cents to $50.00 were given. No large amounts of money were donated. All contributors names were listed in the newspaper.
The fountain with dancing waters and changing colored lights was ready for viewing in June of 1925.
The fountain and bronze tablet mounted on a granite rock was dedicated Armistice Day, November 11, 1925. That day the bronze marker was uncovered by Jim and Jack Trout, sons of DAR member Mrs. E. W. Trout. The twins were dressed in sailor suits. Jim is the husband of DAR member Joel Trout. Jack and Jim are now retired and reside in Ponca City.
Submitted by Karen Hunter