To begin with, there is a generic outline for a historical essay in my Hardhat History website. This is, of course, generic. Working from that, on the basis of experience, I have devised a recommended outline for papers on historical monuments. Work from this, adapt it as necessary, add to it.

I. Introduction
A. Lead
B. Thesis

II. Background
A. Historical monuments and collective memory
B. The memory group(s) behind your monument

III. Upstream: The person or thing to be commemorated by your monument

IV. Establishment of the monument

V. Downstream: Interpretation and subsequent developments pertaining to your monument

VI. Conclusion
A. Confirm the thesis
B. Relate your findings to the historical literature
C. Explain your findings to the memory group(s)