On Wednesday evening members of Bradford’s Rotary Club were honored to install a set of Peace Poles within their garden, located at the corner of Mechanic and West Washington streets.

Members of Bradford’s Rotary Club worked together Wednesday evening to clean up and install Peace Poles in their garden, located on West Washington Street.

Era photo by Daniella Langianese

According to Area Rotary Governor and Bradford Immediate Past President Ben Kirsh, “The installation represents a long-awaited achievement for the club, which has worked since last fall to bring the project to life.”

There are three Peace Poles, which bear the message “May Peace Prevail on Earth” in multiple languages. The poles are a part of a Rotary International initiative aimed to promote peace and understanding across communities and borders. Their presence in Bradford adds the city to a global network of Peace Poles, which all stand in public spaces and at schools. Around the world, there are more than 250,000 Peace Poles, according to Rotary International. Smethport Rotary Club installed poles there in early June.

“This was a true team effort,” Kirsch said. “From navigating setbacks to final installation, our members stayed committed to the goal. These poles are more than decorative — they’re a powerful reminder of what Rotary stands for: peace, unity and service above self.”

Kirsch extended the Rotary’s gratitude to “Chris Cannon at Fuse Prints for assisting with the custom lettering, and to all the Rotarians who contributed their time and energy throughout the project.” He also thanked Rotary District 7280 for supporting the Peace Pole initiative and helping make the vision a reality.

For more information about upcoming Rotary projects or how to get involved, visit the Rotary Club of Bradford’s Facebook page or email bfdrotary@gmail.com.