The Massachusetts Memorial for War-Crossed Lovers

The Sweetheart Memorial in Fort Devens. Fort Devens Museum (Used with permission)

Located on the grounds of the old Fort Devens in Massachusetts, the Sweetheart Memorial is one of the oldest monuments in the complex.

The heart-shaped memorial was dedicated in November 1918 as a tribute to service people and their loved ones, who brave long periods of separation during the time of war. Local romantic legend has it that stones were brought from all over America by the wives and fiancées of soldiers and were used in its construction. It was a popular place for couples to take wedding pictures and say their goodbyes when soldiers were about to be sent overseas.

An ivy and moss covered set of stone steps overlooks the memorial, and a plaque above the heart explains its significance. The memorial, which turns 100 next year, is slowly crumbling and the area is a bit overgrown, but still a sweet place to visit.

Know Before You Go

This is located on Jackson Road, the main street running through the old fort. There is a sign marking it, but it is small so you have to keep an eye out. There is no parking at the memorial itself, but it's a short walk from the parking lot of a nearby playground which is also visible from the road. While there, explore the rest of the old fort which has some spooky abandoned buildings and other memorials.