No trip to Plymouth is complete without a visit to the National Monument to the Forefathers.  In 1820 the Pilgrim Society was formed for the expressed purpose of building a memorial to honor the first settlers of Plymouth.

At an impressive 81 feet, it is the tallest solid granite monument in North America and would have been twice as tall but for the lack of funding during the Post Civil War period.  The artistry and workmanship is exquisite and is more European and Classical than is found in American art.

Construction began in 1859 with the laying of the cornerstone.   The National Monument to the Forefathers was dedicated on August 1, 1889, but time, weather and vandalism have taken their toll. This National Treasure is in need of an extreme makeover.