Nature is full of phenomenal gems, but there are some man-made jewels out there too that deserve your attention. Few Illinoisans know that Alton is home to a unique whispering wall that is absolutely mind-boggling.
Experience this one-of-a-kind attraction for yourself. Check it out:
Nestled along the Mississippi River in southwest Illinois is a historic monument that does something quite bizarre. The Elijah P. Lovejoy Monument is part memorial and part whispering wall.
TripAdvisor/John W
The monument itself sits atop a bluff 300 feet above the river. The main structure is 93 feet tall with a 17-foot-tall winged figure atop it. The two columns on each side are mounted with eagles and lions.
Wikimedia Commons/David Hoffman
Wrapping around the central spire is a whispering wall that allows you to hear someone talking at the complete opposite end. You’ll be able to hear them without even seeing them.
Wikipedia/Kazvorpal No one believes this trick works until they try it for themselves.
Built in 1897, this historic structure memorializes abolitionist Elijah P. Lovejoy who ran a newspaper out of Missouri. His press was attacked multiple times, and so he moved to Alton, Illinois where he was technically free.
Wikimedia Commons/BenDoGood
Though free to operate his business, intolerance from locals allowed for more attacks. Lovejoy died defending his newspaper and free speech.
Wikimedia Commons/Scott Nesler
Whether it’s for the history, the phenomenon of the whispering wall, or just for a fresh gulp of southern Illinois air, it’s always worth a trip to this monument when you’re in Alton.
Wikipedia/Kazvorpal
Address: Monument Avenue, Alton Illinois 62002
TripAdvisor/John W
Wikimedia Commons/David Hoffman
Wikipedia/Kazvorpal
No one believes this trick works until they try it for themselves.
Wikimedia Commons/BenDoGood
Wikimedia Commons/Scott Nesler
For more like this, check out the 10 most inspiring monuments in Illinois and what they have to offer.
If you’ve ever been to this whispering wall, we’d love to hear from you. Please share your experiences and photos with us below in the comments.
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