During World War I, it was common practice to hang a red and white banner with a blue star to symbolize that a particular home had an active-duty service member in the family. If they died, a gold star was sewn over the blue star. Thus began the American Gold Star Mothers organization, as mothers across the country sought to honor the memories and sacrifices of their children.
In 1931, Corpus Christi dedicated the Gold Star Court of Honor to these heroes and their mothers. The project was the first of its kind and was supported by a variety of community civic organizations, including the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR).
The memorial has changed over time but still honors these former residents in the same home at Spohn Park. The gold star light reading “Our 1917 World War Gold Star Heroes” is still a central piece; crepe myrtle trees were planted across the park, bronze medallions were added for each serviceman and a flagpole was installed. In 2001, a granite monument with the names of residents lost in WWI was installed as part of the memorial.
The work of women’s civic groups such as DAR, the American Gold Star Mothers and others provided a thoughtful space of remembrance and honor featured prominently downtown following the Great War.
Learn more about local history in Looking Back on the History of Nueces Coffee Co.
