This thesis explores the creation of the Virginia’s War Memorial Carillon in relation to the persistent significance of the Civil War in Virginia. By focusing on the debates about Virginia’s War Memorial Library, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and Carillon, this thesis reconstructs the sentiments and historical legacy that shaped the multitude of decisions leading to the creation of Virginia’s World War memorial. Virginia seriously considered two other proposals for war memorials—the War Memorial Library and the Virginia Tomb of the Unknown Soldier—before ultimately constructing the War Memorial Carillon. Concerns for appropriateness and residual attachments to the Lost Cause of the Civil War inform the debates about the best memorial to represent Virginia and honor the soldiers, sailors, marines, and women from Virginia who fought in the World War.