The village tradition of honoring Glen Ellyn's veterans dates from 1866. In 1911, William H. Churchill (1840-1927), a pioneer and Civil War veteran, created the first veterans memorial at Main and Crescent. In 1926, Ethel and Roy Spalding sold this triangular shaped land to the park district on the condition that it always be used only for park purposes. To honor this and Churchill's patriotic legacy, the war artifacts were moved to this spot. In 1934, a centennial granite stone was added. In 2000, park ownership was transferred to District #87, preserving the park and open space for all to enjoy. Continuing the historical legacy, this heroes of freedom veterans memorial was dedicated on May 30, 2016.