Providence Parks

History

Located along the scenic Riverwalk between Market Square to the north and Crawford Street Bridge to the south, Memorial Park is a vital downtown green space that combines art, history, and community gathering. With lighted pathways and peaceful sitting areas, this sculpture-filled park offers visitors a place for reflection while honoring those who gave their lives in conflicts around the world.

The park features several powerful memorials, including:

World War I Memorial – Towering 150 feet high, this memorial was designed by architect Paul Cret and completed in 1929. It honors Rhode Islanders who served in the First World War, with the word “Peace” inscribed at the top and specific battles named along the base.

World War II Memorial – Dedicated in 2007, this memorial pays tribute to the Rhode Islanders who served in the Second World War and honors the generation that fought for freedom across the globe.

Korean War Memorial – This evocative bronze sculpture depicts a kneeling soldier braving the cold and rain, symbolizing the hardship and sacrifice of Korean War veterans.

Rhode Island Holocaust Memorial – Designed by RISD-based sculptor Jonathan Bonner and unveiled in 2015, the memorial is composed of four symbolic elements: the Entrance Gate, the Path, the Life Stone, and the Memorial Columns. It serves as a tribute to the victims of the Holocaust and the state’s remaining survivors, honoring both the memory of what was lost and the lessons learned.

Additionally there are monuments to Victims of Violence and to the Portuguese diaspora.

In addition to these historic tributes, Memorial Park continues to evolve as a cultural and artistic hub, serving as the home to numerous public events and celebrations- including the internationally renowned WaterFire installation which draws thousands of visitors to Providence each year.

Recent Improvements

In April 2024, a striking new mural entitled “Under The Cobblestones, The Beach” by Chroma Council, depicting pre-colonial wildlife along the river, was unveiled.

Lighting, turf, and irrigation improvements, completed in November 2023, have enhanced the park’s accessibility and safety, making it a welcoming destination both day and night.