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In the heart of Philippi, West Virginia, a timeless symbol of sacrifice and valor stands proudly - the "Spirit of the American Doughboy" Soldiers’ Memorial. Erected a century ago by American Legion Post No. 44 and the Citizens of Barbour County, this iconic monument has served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the brave sons and daughters of this community in service to our nation.
On November 11, 1923, thousands gathered to attend the dedication of this remarkable memorial. It was a day etched in history when, as one newspaper reported, "the crowd was solidly packed between the courthouse and the stores across Main Street and from Bank Building to Bank Building." The solemn ceremony marked the enduring connection between the citizens of Philippi and their fallen heroes.
The monument, captured in a postcard from the 1923 dedication, proudly stands as a testament to the sacrifices made by Barbour County's servicemen and women during World War I. A brass plate on the base of the statue bears the names of those heroes who laid down their lives in the Great War. Over the years, additional plates have been added to honor the fallen from subsequent conflicts, including World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and the Iraq War.
In a fitting tribute to the monument's centenary, a restoration project was undertaken earlier this year. In July 2023, Kreilick Conservation, LLC of Oreland, PA, meticulously cleaned and preserved the monument. Grant funds, secured by State Senators Bill Hamilton and Robert Karnes, and State Delegate Chris Phillips, were matched by the Barbour County community to fund this essential preservation work.
As the November 4, 2023 celebration of the monument's 100th anniversary approaches, the program promises a memorable experience for all in attendance. Circuit Clerk Gerald Fogg extends an invitation for visitors to tour the historic courtroom of the Barbour County Courthouse, with its recently restored stained-glass dome.
Following the ceremony, guests can enjoy cookies in the Courthouse Lobby, and hot dogs will be provided to band members and veterans by the Philippi Lions Club at the Gazebo.
The day's proceedings will be marked by inspiring speakers and musical performances by Philip Barbour Marching Band, TJ Dalton (Belington Middle School Band Director), and Hayden Dalton (Belington Middle School student).
The event will commence at 10 a.m. on November 4, 2023, as the community gathers to honor and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country. This centennial celebration is not just a moment of remembrance but a testament to the enduring legacy of the "Spirit of the American Doughboy" monument, which has stood as a silent guardian of Philippi's history for the past century. It is a day when the past is saluted with respect, the present is celebrated with pride, and the future is embraced with hope.
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