Noke News explores parts of Roanoke by foot, equipped with a camera and a notepad, in hopes of learning something new. Perhaps you will too.

In recognition of Memorial Day weekend, I traveled downtown to visit Lee Plaza. This area is located along Church Avenue between 2nd and 3rd Streets, and is directly across the street from the Noel C. Taylor Municipal Building.

On the side of the plaza facing 2nd Street, there are a series of large historic memorial markers each with the names of those neighbors who have fallen.

Lee Plaza, 2nd Street running horizontally and Church Avenue continuing straight and to the right. The Commonwealth of Virginia Building is seen to the left.

Nearby to these markers, and quaintly nestled in the shade of trees, is a smaller stone and plaque. Behind this stone and rising above the trees to receive the sunlight, is an American Flag and a Virginia State Flag.

Roanoke Valley War Memorial plaque

Robert E. Lee Memorial in Roanoke

Words on the plaque call this the Roanoke Valley War Memorial, which was originally dedicated in 1982.

And at the far end, nearest 3rd Street, is a memorial dedicated to Robert E. Lee.

Throughout the entire plaza are a number of benches.

And much of the area is shaded by trees which provides a very pleasant environment for sitting and gathering, or even just walking through and taking a moment or two to pay respects in your own way.