How to Plan a Memorial Bench or Plaque for a Public Space
Memorial benches and plaques offer a unique and lasting way to honor someone’s life. Placed in parks, gardens, schools, or walking trails, these tributes allow friends, family, and the community to pause, reflect, and remember. They serve as quiet reminders of a life that brought meaning to others and a legacy that continues to inspire.
At McCall Monument, we have helped many Iowa families and organizations plan and install these lasting tributes. If you are considering a memorial bench or plaque for a public space, here are the steps to take.
1. Choose the Right Location
The first step is to identify where you would like the bench or plaque to be placed. Think about places that held meaning for your loved one, such as a favorite park, community trail, school, or library.
Contact the organization or city that manages the location to ask about their memorial program. Many towns and institutions have guidelines for what types of memorials are allowed and how to apply.
2. Understand the Rules and Approval Process
Each city or organization may have its own process for reviewing and approving public memorials. You may need to complete an application, attend a meeting, or submit design specifications. It is also common to pay a fee for installation, upkeep, or long-term maintenance.
Gathering this information early can help you plan and stay within any timeframes or requirements.
3. Decide on the Memorial Type
Memorial benches and plaques come in several styles. Some options include:
A bench with an engraved plaque attached to the backrest or seat
A stand-alone plaque mounted on a stone, pedestal, or garden base
A bench made entirely from granite with inscriptions etched directly into the surface
Your choice may depend on the setting, budget, and the message you would like to share. You can include a name, dates, a meaningful quote, or even a symbol that reflects their values or interests.
4. Work with a Trusted Monument Partner
Designing and installing a memorial for a public space is a special process. It requires not only craftsmanship, but also coordination with public entities. At McCall Monument, we help guide you through every step. From working with city staff to designing a durable and beautiful tribute, we make sure the process is respectful and smooth.
We can also provide guidance on materials that hold up well outdoors, and ensure the engraving or inscription remains legible for years to come.
5. Plan a Dedication or Gathering
Once the bench or plaque is installed, many families choose to hold a small dedication. This can be as simple as meeting at the site to share memories, or as formal as a community event with speakers and refreshments.
A dedication gives friends and family a chance to honor the moment together and begin a new tradition of visiting the site regularly.
A Lasting Tribute for Generations
Memorial benches and plaques are more than just markers. They are gifts to the community and reminders that someone’s life made a lasting impact. When placed in a public space, they invite reflection, conversation, and connection.
If you are considering a memorial for a loved one, McCall Monument is here to help. We would be honored to assist with designing a tribute that speaks from the heart and fits beautifully in the space you choose. Reach out.