Tag Archive: indianapolis

Ayres Clock – Downtown Indianapolis – Indiana

Ayres Clock - Downtown Indianapolis - Indiana

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This bronze antique clock was first erected above the Ayres department store in downtown Indianapolis in 1936, and has been a landmark ever since. The timepiece was designed Arthur Bohn, and stands in proximity to the Indiana State Soldiers and Sailors Monument, in Monument Circle on Meridian and Market Streets.

World War Memorial – Indianapolis – Indiana

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The Indiana World War Memorial was built in 1924, as the centerpiece of a five city block plaza intended to honor the veterans of World War I. The construction of the plaza was in part intended to draw the newly formed American Legion, a non-profit organization dedicated to US war veterans, to establish its permanent headquarters in Indianapolis.

The World War Memorial was modeled after the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the original seven wonders of the world, located in Anatolia (now Turkey). The modern use of the term mausoleum comes from this tomb, and the ruler it was built for, Mausolus.

The photos feature the interior of the memorial, specifically the shrine room, includes the American flag, the star of destiny, and 40 foot columns of marble from Vermont. The other photo is the exterior and features the Pro Patria “For Country” statue.

Circle Tower Doorway – Indianapolis – Indiana

Circle Tower Doorway - Indianapolis - Indiana

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Circle Tower is a great example of Art Deco architecture, and is part of the Washington Street – Monument Circle Historic District. Finished in the 1930’s it includes the pictured doorway, With an arched doorway covered in carved granite figures, and a bronze screen displaying hieroglyphic-style figures, the doorway is a reflection of the time in which it was built. Only eight years prior to the building’s completion, Howard Carter had discovered the tomb of the Pharaoh Tutankhamen in Egypt, and Egyptology was highly popular.

Website – History of Art Deco