CLARKSVILLE, IN (March 2, 2022) – Southern Indiana residents will soon be able to help honor the legacy of one it’s most famous residents thanks to a new Crowdfunding campaign launching in Clarksville.
Rose Will Monroe was the original “Rosie the Riveter”, made famous during World War II while employed as a riveter building B24 Bombers. Her likeness was used to sell war bonds in support of the war effort, but she became much more than that. Today she serves as an iconic reminder of the American spirit during times of struggle.
The Clarksville Historic Preservation Commission plans to honor Rosie’s legacy with the development of a beautiful monument and nature park along the Ohio Riverfront. If the Commission reaches it’s goal of $40,000 by March 31, 2022, the project will receive a matching grant as part of the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority’s (IHCDA) CreatINg Places program.
Funds from this campaign will create an interactive monument recognizing “Rosie the Riveter”, artful education displays and seating in their efforts to conserve, protect, and connect people to nature. Visitors will be able to learn about “Rosie the Riveter”, her contribution to the war effort, and her connections to Clarksville.
“Rosie married and settled here in Clarksville once the war ended,” said Clarksville Historic Preservation Commission President Lynn Lewis. “We felt it was long overdue to honor the legacy of one of Clarksville’s most influential residents. We feel this monument will be a fitting tribute to her impact on our country.”
For more information about “Rosie the Riveter” or to make a donation to the crowdfunding campaign, residents can simply visit www.patronicity.com/rosie.
About the CreatINg Places Program
The CreatINg Places program began in 2016, projects have raised more than $5.5 million in public funds and an additional $4.5 million in matching IHCDA funds.The program is available to projects located in Indiana communities. Non-profit entities (with 501c3 or 501c4 status) and Local Units of Government are eligible to apply.
Eligible projects must have a minimum total development cost of $10,000, where the recipient will receive $5,000 in IHCDA matching funds should it successfully raise $5,000 through Patronicity. IHCDA will provide matching grant funds up to $50,000 per project.
About the Clarksville Historic Preservation Commission (HPC)
The purpose of the Historical Preservation Commission is to promote the educational, cultural and general welfare of the citizens of Clarksville and to insure the harmonious and orderly growth and development of the municipality; to maintain established areas, sites, or neighborhoods that have had or are in danger of having their distinctiveness destroyed; to enhance property values and attract new developments and residents; to ensure the viability of traditional areas and to enhance tourism within the region and Town of Clarksville; it is deemed essential by the Town Council of the Town of Clarksville that qualities relating to its history and harmonious outward appearance of its structures and sites be preserved.