Acts of Intolerance

Artist: Preston Jackson, 2008

Excerpted from the monument plaque:

Two charred chimneys rising from the smoldering rubble of burned-out buildings—these stark images from an old photograph were the inspiration for this unique sculpture by acclaimed artist Preston Jackson. The sculpture commemorates the centennial of the brutal Springfield Race Riot of 1908.

The numerous relief images on the surfaces of the chimney columns depict scenes that suggest themes of intolerance and others that suggest themes of redemption. “Confronting our past straightforwardly is the only way we can learn to develop our future together,” said sculptor Preston Jackson. “The imagery leaves the viewer to contemplate their meaning and the long-term effects on how we stand socially today and will stand tomorrow.”