Western Military Academy Monument
2009 Seminary Ave, Alton, IL 62002
Historic Sites
Originally founded as Wyman Institute by Edward Wyman in 1878, it was reorganized as Western Military Academy in 1896.
A fire destroyed the original school building in 1903, but by later that year the present buildings were erected. The architecture is English with battlement parapets. The buildings are constructed of broken ashlan stonework up to the first story windowsills, and above that the walls are built of paving brick trimmed with Bedford stone. The military school was disbanded in the early 1970s. The Mississippi Valley Christian School opened in 1974. The story of the 92-year history of Western Military Academy is engraved on a beautiful monument at the gate of the former academy in Upper Alton.
Images
What's happening nearby...
Javapalooza 2026
Great Rivers & Routes Region • Sep 01 – Nov 30
Javapalooza 2026 is brewing Sept. 1-Nov. 30! Sip signature drinks, explore coffee shops, join scavenger hunts, follow the Coffee Trail that celebrates the bean, baristas and…
Read more about Javapalooza 2026
Christmas Wonderland
Rock Spring Park • Nov 27 – Dec 27 @ 6PM
Begin your holiday celebration when you experience the enchantment of Christmas at the "Christmas Wonderland" holiday light display! The "Grandpa Gang" has been at it again…
Read more about Christmas WonderlandYou might also be interested...
Confederate Cemetery and Memorial
Alton
Remember those who died in the infamous Alton prison in 1863 as you visit the Confederate Cemetery and Memorial in Alton, IL.
Read more about Confederate Cemetery and Memorial
Confederate Prison Site
Alton
Visit first Illinois State Penitentiary and learn about the ghastly history of the overcrowded, often disease-infested prison. Today, it is a monument dedicated to those who…
Read more about Confederate Prison Site
McPike Mansion
Alton
When just about any native of the Alton area thinks of a haunted house, normally one name comes to mind - the infamous McPike Mansion.
Read more about McPike Mansion