Freedom Square

Sometimes, certain stories merit a second look. This month, we revisit the Freedom Square project we profiled in our June issue. Since then, the mosaic garden honoring our fallen heroes has been completed. We checked back in to see what the undertaking meant to those responsible for its creation. – Ed.

On a once-barren wall on Pine Street in Doylestown, mosaics depicting painted stars proudly proclaim the heroic deeds of soldiers. Alongside the patriotic symbols, artistically rendered combat boots rest beneath a soaring dove. A painted eagle surveys the buildings of an Iraqi village and an American town. However, the work here is not simply a memorial.

Though inspired by two men who gave their lives for their country, Travis Manion and Colby Umbrell, Freedom Square provides a gathering place to commemorate those we have lost and celebrate their lives. Completed and dedicated on September 11, the small park is a tangible reminder of an undying message of hope.

The Manions, Umbrells and countless others have all faced perhaps the greatest tragedy that can befall a family. But through the community-based mosaic project and Katia McGuirk’s ceramic vision, they have transformed that grief into gratitude. “I have learned so much from those families,” says McGuirk, a tile artist. “This little spot has taken me down a road that I never thought I’d travel. There’s a real healing modality to the entire project.”

Roughly 1,000 stars cover the wall, an homage created by varying members of the community throughout the last year. “It’s all about the poetry and the message,” continues McGuirk, who has also worked on Star Garden and other tile mosaics around town.

On the day of the dedication, over 600 people turned out for the September 11th 5k Heroes Run, which began and ended at Freedom Square. The raced served as a benefit for the Travis Manion Foundation, which also supports programs like the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors and other community services for military members and their families. The run is one of many across the nation honoring our fallen heroes.

Freedom Square transformed a small corner of Doylestown into a sanctuary. From the steps leading up from the street under an archway to its enclave ringed with benches, the space offers ample room for contemplation. A bell made by local artist Ray Mathis hangs from the arch and can be rung in remembrance.