Standing proudly on the verdant grounds of the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, the Herndon Monument is a striking 21-foot-tall grey granite obelisk that honors the bravery and sacrifice of Captain William Lewis Herndon. This monument not only serves as a memorial but is also the focal point of one of the Academy's most cherished traditions, the Herndon Monument Climb.
Captain William Lewis Herndon, a name etched into maritime history, is remembered for his heroic actions during the tragic sinking of the SS Central America on September 12, 1857. As the ship faced its doom amidst a ferocious storm, Captain Herndon valiantly ensured the safety of all women and children aboard, as well as many of the men, before the ship succumbed to the sea. His selfless actions left an indelible mark on the Naval Academy, inspiring the creation of this monument by the class of 1860.
The Herndon Monument is a simple yet powerful tribute. The granite obelisk, measuring 400 inches in height and 71 inches on each side, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of courage and leadership. It bears inscriptions that quietly narrate Herndon's legacy. On one side, the name HERNDON is inscribed in bold letters, while the opposite side marks the fateful date, September 12, 1857. This silent sentinel watches over the Academy, a constant reminder of the values it upholds.
Scavenger Hunts in Annapolis
Discover Annapolis with the digital scavenger hunt from myCityHunt! Solve puzzles, master team tasks and explore Annapolis with your team!
Perhaps the most famous aspect of the Herndon Monument is the annual Herndon Monument Climb, a tradition that marks the end of the plebe year for first-year students, known as plebes. This event is a spectacle of teamwork, determination, and camaraderie, as plebes work together to scale the obelisk. The goal? To replace a plebe's dixie-cup hat perched atop the monument with an upperclassman's combination cover.
Adding to the challenge, upperclassmen traditionally slather the monument with as much as 50 pounds of vegetable shortening, making the climb slippery and arduous. The climb is a test of grit and perseverance, embodying the spirit of overcoming obstacles through unity and cooperation. The midshipman who successfully places the cover is celebrated, although the legendary promise of being the first in their class to reach Flag Rank remains unfulfilled.
The Herndon Monument Climb is more than just a physical challenge; it is a symbolic event that fosters a sense of belonging and pride among the plebes. It is a rite of passage that links them to the generations of midshipmen who have come before. The tradition has evolved over the years, with rules and safety measures adapting to ensure the well-being of participants. Despite these changes, the core values of teamwork and resilience remain unchanged.
The Academy began officially recording climb times in 1959, adding an element of competition to the event. In 1969, Midshipman Larry Fanning achieved the fastest recorded climb at 1 minute and 30 seconds, although the monument was not greased that year. The fastest time since the greasing tradition began was set by Midshipman Michael J. Maynard in 1972, who completed the climb in just 20 minutes.
Over the years, the climb has faced scrutiny due to safety concerns, but the tradition endures. In 2010, the practice of greasing the monument was temporarily halted to reduce the risk of injury, but it was reinstated the following year, highlighting the event's importance in fostering camaraderie and tradition among the midshipmen.
In a nod to history, the ship's bell from the SS Central America was discovered in 1988 and donated to the Naval Academy in 2021. It now stands beside the Herndon Monument, dedicated in a ceremony in May 2022, further enriching the monument's narrative and connection to Captain Herndon's legacy.
In conclusion, the Herndon Monument is not just a static memorial; it is a living symbol of the values and traditions that define the U.S. Naval Academy. From its inception as a tribute to a heroic captain to its role in the annual climb, the monument embodies the spirit of courage, unity, and perseverance that is at the heart of naval service. A visit to this monument offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of history and tradition that shapes the lives of those who pass through the Academy's gates.
Get your Tickets now!
With myCityHunt you can discover thousands of cities around the world in exciting Scavenger Hunts, Treasure Hunts and Escape Games!
myCityHunt vouchers are the perfect gift for many occasions! Surprise your friends and family with this extraordinary event gift. myCityHunt gift vouchers are valid for 3 years from the date of purchase and can be used within this period for a freely selectable city and tour from the myCityHunt portfolio.