Historic Mary Washington Monument Defaced With Political Graffiti in Fredericksburg

The Mary Washington Monument in Fredericksburg, the nation's first memorial to a woman created by women, was defaced with graffiti over a recent weekend. Vandals spray-painted the word "Antifa" and an associated symbol on two sides of the obelisk, while the side facing Washington Avenue remained untouched. The defacement was discovered by a volunteer the following morning, and authorities believe it occurred during the night. The Fredericksburg Police Department is investigating and seeking public assistance, offering a $1,500 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible. The monument had been recently celebrated for restoration efforts aimed at improving accessibility and educational opportunities, making the vandalism particularly disheartening for the community and volunteers. Efforts are underway to raise funds to clean the monument, with hopes of removing the graffiti promptly.