We come here to remember
those who were killed,
those who survived and those changed forever.
May all who leave here know the impact of violence.
May this memorial offer comfort, strength, peace, hope and serenity.
Gates of Time
These monumental twin gates frame the moment of destruction - 9:02 and mark the
formal entrances to the memorial. The east gate represents 9:01 on April 19th.
The west gate represents 9:03
1.
Field of Empty Chairs
These 168 chairs stand as a poignant reminder of each life lost, articulated as
the absence felt by family members and friends. The chairs are placed in nine
rows, representing the nine floors of the building. The chairs are placed
according to the floor on which those killed worked or were visiting.
The symbolic chairs are designed in two sizes, the smaller size representing the
absence of 19 children. Each chair is crafted of bronze and stone; its glass
base is etched with the name of the victim. By day, the chairs seem to float
above their translucent bases. By night the glass bases illuminate as beacons of
hope.
Reflecting Pool
The pool occupies what was once N.W. 5th street. Here a shallow depth of gently
flowing water is intended to help soothe wounds, with calming sounds providing a
peaceful setting for quiet thoughts. Visitors may see their own reflection, a
face of someone changed forever.
Field of Empty Chairs
The symbolic chairs are designed in two sizes, the smaller size representing the absence of 19 children. Each chair is crafted of bronze and stone; its glass base is etched with the name of the victim. By day, the chairs seem to float above their translucent bases. By night the glass bases illuminate as beacons of hope.
The Survivor Tree
The Survivor Tree, an American Elm, bears witness to the violence of April 19
and now stands as a profound symbol of human resilience. The circular promontory
surrounding the tree offers a place for gathering and viewing the memorial.
Overview of Memorial Site
The explosion took place right where the group of people are standing.
Children's Area
In the aftermath of the blast, countless expressions of encouragement were
received from children. A wall of hand painted tiles sent to Oklahoma City in
1995 by children illustrates that caring. In addition, a series of chalkboards
creates an oversized display of these works where children can continue to share
their feelings - an important component of the healing process
Rescuers Plea
This was painted on the wall of the old Journal Record Building the day of the explosion and gives an excellent idea of the emotions of the day.
The Thought Process
We had just left the museum and it was a very emotional tour. Here is Elizabeth looking out over the Memorial grounds.
To learn more about this memorial, please visit:
http://www.oklahomacitynationalmemorial.org
