Felix Battles Monument Unveiling on Nov. 4

Saturday, Nov. 4 | 11 a.m. | In front of the Center for Business

A monument in honor of Felix Battles will be unveiled on November 4, at 11 a.m. outside of MSUM’s Center for Business. There will be special keynote speakers and chance to learn more about Moorhead’s first Black barber and Civil War veteran. This project was led by MSUM and the Historical and Cultural Society of Clay County.

Statue prototype for Felix Battles made by Markus Krueger, Historical and Cultural Society of Clay County.


Felix Battles was a courageous American Civil War soldier who risked his life to free his fellow Americans and preserve the Union. He overcame a lifetime of injustice and adversity before moving north to the frontier, where he built both a home and a business. The monument will serve as a reminder of his bravery and the sacrifices he made for his country.

Pouring concrete for the Felix Battles monument.


The monument also aims to promote a greater interest in Felix’s story. It will stand as a symbol of the forgotten heroes—particularly among people of color—who have made great sacrifices for our community. An advisory board of community leaders believes that Felix Battles is a man Moorhead can be proud of, and the monument will help keep his legacy alive for generations to come.

All members of the community are invited to honor Felix Battles and his contributions.

Completed concrete base for the Felix Battles statue.

MSUM was chosen as the site for the monument because Felix Battles’ old home stood next to the university’s Center for Business. Read more about Felix Battles.

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