We may be tempted to assume that monuments get erected continuously over time as historical events warrant. Seemingly, there should be a steady accumulation of monuments as subsequent generations commemorate the accomplishments of their predecessors or their own generation. But, in fact, different generations of North Carolinians have displayed differing levels of commemorative zeal. By scrolling along this interactive time line, we can see peaks and valleys in the construction of monuments. These peaks and valleys are suggestive of shifting ideas about the purpose and value of commemoration.
