Monuments in miniature: Fourth graders bring history to life

It seems that history buffs discover their passion for the past at a young age and. fourth grade students from Mr. Houdlette and Ms. Potter’s classes at
Wareham Elementary School proudly showcased their handcrafted replicas of Washington, D.C.’s most iconic monuments, memorials, and buildings.

On Wednesday, May 28, 42 students presented 12 intricately designed cardboard displays to fellow students, parents, and alumni during a special exhibition.

Each monument was created by a group of three to four students. In addition to building their models, each individual student wrote an informative essay detailing the history, symbolism, and significance of their chosen monument. The essays were displayed alongside the models, offering attendees a deeper understanding of each project.

The patriotic display filled the fourth-grade corridor with creativity and enthusiasm as student groups shared the history, symbolism, and fun facts behind each monument. Visitors learned fascinating details— from why the Washington Monument is two different shades of white to the significance of the 56 pillars at the World War II Memorial.

Mr. Houdlette explained how each year, he is impressed by how passionate students become about their projects.

“Our hope is that they appreciate how we honor those who have given so much to our country and feel pride in their work and their country,” he said

Some of the monuments included in this year’s exhibition were the African American Civil War Memorial, the Capitol Building, the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, the Pentagon, and the Supreme Court.