As Veterans Day approaches, I’m filled with gratitude for the men and women who’ve served our nation—and for the places that keep their stories alive. One such treasure is the SS American Memorial, nestled on the sprawling Lazy U Ranch in Seguin, Texas. This isn’t just a monument; it’s a living memorial, a place of healing, history, and hope for veterans, active-duty service members, first responders, wounded warriors, and their families.
Founded by visionary Craig Russell, the SS American Memorial Foundation is dedicated to honoring all who have served—whether in uniform or through civilian sacrifice. From the battlefields of the Revolutionary War to the sands of the War on Terror, every generation of warfighter is remembered here. And now, thanks to years of dedication, a historic piece of San Antonio’s past has found its forever home at the ranch.
A Historic Homecoming: The Travis Park Confederate Memorial
I recently learned from Rita Shimpff, a passionate advocate for Texas history, that the beautiful Travis Park Confederate Memorial—originally dedicated in 1899—has been safely relocated to the Lazy U Ranch.
“I learned today that our beautiful Travis Park memorial was safely moved to its new home at the Lazy U Ranch!” Rita shared. “Craig Russell and John Baines have worked hard for years to make this a reality. Alamo Trucking donated the move of all pieces, including the remains of the 1899 time capsule! Once again, this meaningful and lovely memorial will be available for all to reflect on the history of the time and the thousands of husbands, brothers, and sons that never returned—and the widows and orphans left behind.”
The monument itself—designed by Louisiana artist Elizabeth Montgomery and carved by Frank Teich—was the first U.S. memorial created by a woman and the first of its kind in San Antonio. It stood as a tribute to “Our Confederate Dead,” depicting an unnamed soldier atop a 40-foot granite pillar. This event symbolized healing after the Civil War, with the park (formerly a Confederate hospital site) serving as a “muster point” for soldiers. The United Daughters of the Confederacy, which organized the funding and erected the monument, received perpetual land use rights via a unanimous San Antonio City Council ordinance in 1899. The capsule aimed to capture the “essence of the end of a century,” including mementos of sacrifice amid national reconciliation.
This monument will be lovingly restored and preserved, and will stand as a solemn tribute to Civil War veterans and their families. It’s a powerful reminder that all warfighters—past, present, and future—are welcomed here, along with their descendants. Whether your ancestor fought at Gettysburg or Fallujah, this is a place to honor their service and sacrifice.
More Than a Memorial – A Place of Healing and Community
The SS American Memorial isn’t just about stone and bronze. It’s a private living war memorial unlike any other in the United States—spanning acres dedicated to patriotism, education, and direct support. The foundation provides:
Respite care and fellowship for veterans and families
Direct financial assistance for basic needs
Historical education to teach youth about American values and sacrifice
Free event space for trusted nonprofits to host fundraisers
It’s a sanctuary where veterans can reflect, reconnect, and find peace—surrounded by fellow Americans who understand.
An Open Invitation to All Warfighters and Their Families
If you’re a veteran, active-duty service member, or descendant of a warfighter—from the Revolutionary War to today—you are welcome here. Walk the grounds. Touch the monuments. Read the names. Bring your children and grandchildren. Let them see what service and sacrifice truly mean.
Follow the SS American Memorial on Facebook for updates, events, and stories of impact. Visit ssamemorial.org to plan your trip to the Lazy U Ranch.
This Veterans Day, let’s not just thank our heroes—let’s visit the places that keep their legacy alive.