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The American Society of
Le Souvenir Français Inc.
Monthly Bulletin - Vol. V, No 4
April 2025
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Statues of Liberty
in the United States
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Cover illustration:
"Liberty Enlightening the World" in New York harbor, a gift of the French people to the United States, became a national symbol. There are hundreds of replicas throughout the United States, as well as thousands others of all stripes and colors, each carrying a little trace of French DNA.
Scroll down for photo credits and click on illustrations to access interpretive links.
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Editorial
The Statue of Liberty is a powerful symbol of American identity, representing the nation's ideals of freedom, democracy, and economic opportunity.
As we prepare to celebrate the statue's 140th anniversary next year, alongside the 250th anniversary of the United States, we realize that we haven't yet dedicated one of our monthly Bulletins to this significant symbol of French-American friendship. Many outstanding books have explored this topic. With that in mind, we aim to engage you, our dear readers, by using our typical approach: showcasing existing markers and plaques that you can visit either in person or online. These resources are filled with fascinating stories and historical insights. This collection of information serves as a bridge between our present and the past: what were the thoughts and beliefs of those who came before us? How can we draw inspiration from their testimonials to guide us in today's world?
To find out, we will travel throughout America and present just a few of the hundreds of replicas which dot the country. While more than 200 hundreds replicas were installed in the 1950's by the Boys Scouts of America, there are many more, each more or less faithful to the original, that were erected in different materials by different sculptors, and they each tell a story of profound patriotism and attachment to the values of Freedom and Democracy. And we do not count the hundreds that have been installed next to businesses, from car dealerships to tax services and pizza parlors...they all symbolize the American dream pursued by generations of immigrants.
As always, Part Two of our Bulletin will honor this month another brave American volunteer who "Died for France " in World War One: Corporal Sidney Rankin Drew, who was shot down on May 19, 1918 at La Neuville - Sire Bernard (Somme), and who was a silent movie actor, alas much forgotten today. He was the first American actor to die in a world war. May he be in the spotlight, and in our thoughts, with our Bulletin.
Our third part “News and Save the Dates” will report on events since our last Bulletin, including several commemorations of the ongoing Bicentennial of Lafayette’s Farewell Tour organized by the American Friends of Lafayette. We also share several upcoming patriotic events. Do not miss the last pages, where we announce the launch of the fund raising campaign for the sculpture of Antoine de Saint Exupéry and his Little Prince in downtown Miami, Florida!
On behalf of the Board of Directors,
Thierry Chaunu
President, American Society of Le Souvenir Français, Inc.
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Historical Context:
Two sister republics
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We use the term "sister republic" in a loose sense, as do not refer to the "sister republics" established in Europe during the French revolution. We refer rather to an admiration felt by the nascent French third Republic for the centennial of the American republic, and the fact that the two countries were the only two major powers not to be ruled by a king or an emperor.
France gifted the Statue of Liberty to the United States to commemorate the centennial of the U.S. Declaration of Independence and the enduring friendship between the two nations, particularly during the American Revolution, when France's support was crucial to ensure American independence, and to celebrate the shared ideals of liberty and democracy
The statue, officially named "Liberty Enlightening the World," was conceived in 1865 by French political thinker and ardent abolitionist Édouard de Laboulaye.
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Genesis:
Edouard de Laboulaye
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• Edouard René De Laboulaye (18 January 1811 - 25 May 1883) was a French jurist, poet, author and abolitionist. He wrote a three-volume work on the political history of the United States and published it in Paris. During the American Civil War, he was a zealous advocate of the Union cause and the abolition of slavery, publishing histories of the cultural connections of the two nations. At the war's conclusion in 1865, he became president of the French Emancipation Committee that aided newly freed slaves in the U.S.
• The concept of a gift symbolizing Franco-American friendship and commemorating the centennial of the United States' Declaration of Independence is said to have originated from a dinner held in early summer 1865 at Glatigny near Versailles. This gathering was hosted by the French jurist Édouard de Laboulaye, who invited a group of like-minded liberal friends, including Oscar de Lafayette, Charles de Rémusat, Hippolyte Clérel de Tocqueville, and the Alsatian sculptor Auguste Bartholdi, who had just created a bust of Laboulaye. They came together to celebrate the Union's victory in the Civil War and to mourn the death of Abraham Lincoln.
• During that dinner, it is said that Laboulaye suggested creating a monument to honor the upcoming 100th anniversary of U.S. independence in 1876, celebrate the strength of American democracy, and recognize the freedom of the nation's enslaved people with the following toast:
“In eleven years' time, America will be celebrating the centenary of its independence. What better time to renew the spiritual ties between the United States and France? What better way? With a monument. When hearts beat in unison, something always remains, whether among nations or among people.”
Sculpture and Marker, “Edouard René De Laboulaye (1811 – 1883)”
Liberty Island, New York, NY 10004
GPS: 40.689867, -74.044734
• Inscription:
“He conceived this monument, showing the love of Liberty shared by France and America. This statue would be a gift from a people to a people. It was intended for the 1876 Centennial but was delayed until 1886. De Laboulaye never saw his dream realized."
“Dedicated by
Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Cohen
Philip Rathner – Sculptor"
| | Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi | | |
• Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi (2 August 1834 – died in Paris, 4 October 1904) was born in Colmar, France. He was born to a family of Alsatian Protestant heritage, with his family name romanticized from Barthold. He served in the Franco-Prussian War of 1870 as a squadron leader of the National Guard. He constructed several monuments celebrating French heroism in the defense against Prussia. In 1871, he made his first trip to the United States, where he pitched the idea of a massive statue gifted from the French to the Americans in honor of the centennial of American independence. The idea, which had first been broached to him in 1865 by his friend Édouard René de Laboulaye, resulted in the Statue of Liberty.
Sculpture and Marker, “Frederic Auguste Bartholdi (1834 – 1904)”
Liberty Island, New York, NY 10004
GPS: 40.689864, -74.044730
• Inscription:
“A French sculptor and friend of De Laboulaye, he created the
Statue of “Liberty Enlightening the World” and selected its site.
Inspired by his first view of New York Harbor, Bartholdi later wrote
“The Statue was born for this place which inspired its conception”.
A gift from
Ed and Rhona Libov
to the city we love
Philip Rathner – Sculptor”
Marker, “Bartholdi”
Liberty Island, New York, NY 10004
GPS: 40.689750, -74.046367
• Inscription:
“Born in Colmar, France in 1834, Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi was one of the most celebrated sculptors of the nineteenth century. He is most famous for creating the Statue of Liberty which was dedicated in 1886.
In his fifty-two years as an artist, he created approximately one hundred works of art. He died on October 4, 1904 of tuberculosis and is buried in Montparnasse Cemetery in Paris, France."
Erected by National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior.”
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Above:
Left: Le Génie de la Liberté ("The Genius of Liberty") by Augustin Dumont (French, 1801-1884), at the top of the Colonne de Juillet on the Place de la Bastille (4th arrondissement of Paris). Gilded bronze, 1833. H. 4 m (13 ft. 1 ¼ in.). Another bronze print is on display at the Musée du Louvre (RF 680). By Auguste Dumont - Personal work Jastrow, Public domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=1772007
Center: Colonne de Juillet, Paris, By Chabe01 — Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=105779119
Right: Watercolour of Bartholdi's design for the Suez Canal, 1869. Bartholdi Museum, Colmar. By Auguste Bartholdi - Personal work, Public domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=79320408.
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• The newspaper Le Phare de la Loire, proposed in 1865 a fundraising drive for creation of a gold medal for Mary Todd Lincoln, the widow of the American president, and evoked the concept of the statue proposed by Laboulaye. The medal featured the inscription: "Dedicated by the French Democracy to Lincoln, an honest man who abolished slavery, restored the Union, saved the Republic, without overshadowing the Statue of Liberty."
• Bartholdi, inspired by the Colossi of Memnon he saw during his trip to Egypt in 1855, started thinking of a colossal sculpture. One of his initial ideas was for a massive lighthouse, designed as a 19-meter tall "fellah" holding a torch, as depicted above, to be placed at the entrance of the Suez Canal which was being built by French engineer Ferdinand de Lesseps. He proposed this project in 1867 to Ismaïl Pasha, the Khedive of Egypt, naming it "Liberty Enlightening the East."
The project was dropped due to a lack of funding, however, the concept would eventually be revived for New York harbor.
• Note, as the president of the Franco-American Union, de Lesseps presented the statue to the United States to the Ambassador of the United States in France Levi P. Morton on July 4, 1885 and was present at the inauguration.
• Bartholdi spent years thinking about the statue's design, drawing inspiration from various sources, as shown in the illustrations above and below.
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• The Liberty crown is directly inspired by the Great Seal of France, which has been the official symbol of the French Republic since the Second Republic in 1848 and still in use today (the original date "XXIV FEVRIER MDCCCCXLVIII", i.e. 24 February 1848" at the bottom was erased around 1878). It was itself inspired by the Roman goddess "Libertas"...
• Both the French and American "Liberties" wear a crown with seven branches, representing the seven oceans (Arctic, North Atlantic, South Atlantic, North Pacific, South Pacific, Indian, and Southern oceans) and continents of the world (Asia, Africa, North America, South America, Antarctica, Europe, and Australia).
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• Bartholdi envisioned the statue as a representation of democracy and a symbol of liberation from all forms of oppression. Laboulaye, as a staunch abolitionis, also wished to celebrate the adoption of the 13th amendment ending slavery. The severed shackles and chains are universal symbols of freedom and the abolition of slavery in the United States. Nevertheless, contemporary American financial backers rejected Bartholdi's inclusion of chains and shackles, demanding their removal. Despite Bartholdi's strong desire to keep these elements, he ultimately conceded to their removal to avoid jeopardizing the project's completion.
• Consequently, he substituted the chains in Lady Liberty's hand with a book, and placed the broken chains at the feet, which are not visible from the ground.
• In her left hand she carries a tablet bearing the date July 4, 1776 in Roman numerals (JULY IV MDCCLXXVI) to commemorate America’s birth as an independent nation.
• The torch in her right hand represents liberty enlightening the world.
• Liberty is depicted in a contrapposto pose. It is a sculptural pose where a human figure is depicted with most of its weight on one leg, creating a natural-looking twist in the torso and hips. The striding position of her right foot is an indication that Liberty is not stagnant, but marching forward instead.
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• On June 8, 1871, with letters of introduction from Laboulaye, Bartholdi traveled to the United States for five months. There, he identified the location of Bedloe's Island, which would become Liberty Island in 1956, and sought to gather support for his project. On July 18, 1871, he met with U.S. President Ulysses S. Grant in New York. At an exclusive club in the city, he hosted a dinner to raise funds from wealthy Republicans, informing them that the initial cost was $125,000 (equivalent to $3,031,211 in 2025) for the pedestal, which would be funded by Americans, while the remaining $125,000 for the statue itself would be covered by the French. However, he returned to France without any financial backing, as the businessmen he approached wanted their company names displayed on the statue in exchange for their contributions.
• The Franco-Prussian War caused delays until 1875, when Laboulaye suggested that the French people fund the statue while the United States would provide the location and construct the pedestal. Bartholdi finished the head and the arm holding the torch before the entire statue was designed, showcasing these parts at international exhibitions for publicity.
• The arm with the torch was displayed at the Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia in 1876 and later in Madison Square Park in Manhattan from 1876 to 1882.
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• Alexandre Gustave Eiffel (born in Dijon, 15 December 1832 – died in Paris, 27 December 1923) was a French civil engineer. A graduate of École Centrale des Arts et Manufactures, he made his name with various bridges for the French railway network, most famously the Garabit viaduct. He is best known for the world-famous Eiffel Tower, designed by his company and built for the 1889 Universal Exposition in Paris, and his contribution to building the Statue of Liberty in New York. In 1881 Eiffel was contacted by Auguste Bartholdi who was in need of an engineer to help him to realize the Statue of Liberty. Eiffel devised a structure consisting of a four legged pylon to support the copper sheeting which made up the body of the statue.
Sculpture and marker, “Alexandre Gustave Eiffel (1832 – 1923)“
Liberty Island, New York, NY 10004
GPS: 40.689853, -74.044696
• Inscription:
“The iron skeleton which supports the Statue was designed by this noted French engineer and bridge builder. He later designed and built the Eiffel Tower for the Paris World’s Fair of 1889.
Dedicated by
Mr. and Mrs. Marvin Kay
Philip Rathner – Sculptor”
• A significant contributor to the Statue of Liberty was architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc, a close friend of Bartholdi, known for restoring the Notre-Dame cathedral and many other French monuments. He designed the pleats of the dress, the structures of the hand holding the torch and the head.
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Marker, “Building the Statue of Liberty”
Liberty Island, New York, NY 10004
GPS: 40.688625, -74.044830
• Inscription:
“The French sculptor, Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi designed the Statue of Liberty as a giant three-dimensional jigsaw puzzle. Over 300 thin sheets of copper, most of it from a copper mine in Karmoy, Norway, fit together to form the Statue’s outer skin. Each copper sheet is 3/32 of an inch thick, about the thickness of two coins. The sheets were shaped in France using the ancient repoussé method in which the metal is hammered and shaped within large wooden and plaster molds. The finished pieces were then shipped to the United States where they were assembled and supported on an ingenious iron framework of armature bars and girders designed by Alexandre Gustave Eiffel.
Erected by National Park Service.”
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Markers, “Statue - Facts”
Liberty Island, New York, NY 10004
GPS: 40.689883, -74.046483
• Inscription (excerpts):
"...The Statue’s skin is made of copper, and when copper is exposed to oxygen in the air, it undergoes a chemical reaction called oxidation. The reaction causes a fine crust or film to develop that is usually green in color. This layer protects the original metal underneath. In copper and bronze, this natural protective process is called Patination. It took nearly thirty years for the Statue to turn from her original copper color to the green you see today..." (National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior.)
• Inscription:
“Height from base to torch: 151’ 1” (46.50m)
Pedestal foundation to torch: 305’ 1” (92.99m)
Length of hand: 16’ 5” (5.00m)
Index finger: 8’ 0” (2.44m)
Size of fingernail: 13” x 10” (.33x.25m)
Head from chin to cranium: 17’ 3” (5.26m)
Head width from ear to ear: 10’ 0” (3.05m)
Distance across eye: 2’ 6” (.76m)
Length of nose: 4’ 6” v(1.48m)
Right Arm length: 42’ 0” (12.80m)
Right arm greatest thickness: 12’ 0” (3.66m)
Thickness of waist : 35’ 0” (10.67m)
Width of mouth: 3’ 0” (.91m)
Tablet length : 23’ 7” (7.19m)
Tablet width: 13’ 7” (4.14m)
Tablet thickness: 2’ 0” (.61m)
Height of granite pedestal : 89’ 0” (27.13m)
Height of foundation : 65’ 0” (19.81m)
Weight of copper used: 200,000 pounds (100 tons)
Weight of steel used : 250,000 pounds (125 tons)
Total weight : 450,000 pounds (225 tons)
Erected by National Park Service.”
In 1886, the Statue of Liberty, perched on her pedestal, was the tallest structure in New York City, reaching a height of 305 feet, 1 inch (92.99 meters). This made her taller than the Brooklyn Bridge, which had just been finished three years prior. However, she was quickly outdone in height by skyscrapers in Manhattan.
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The best original description comes from the Patent (excerpts):
« a statue representing Liberty enlightening the world, the same consisting, essentially, of the draped female figure, with one arm upraised, bearing a torch, and while the other holds an inscribed tablet, and having upon the head a diadem, substantially as set forth. » ...
[...] « Classical, yet severe and calm, features »...
[...] « Thrown slightly over to the left so as to gravitate upon the left leg, the whole figure thus being in equilibrium. »...
[...] with a protection against imitations or counterfeits « In any manner known to the glyptic art in the form of a statue or statuette, or in alto-relievo or bass-relief, in metal, stone, terra-cotta, plaster-of-paris, or other plastic composition. »
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The American side was responsible for building the base:
It is made of six-meter-thick poured concrete walls, topped with a pedestal of pink granite blocks sourced from a quarry in Guilford, Connecticut. Construction took place from October 9, 1883, to August 22, 1886. When the final stone was placed, the masons took several silver coins from their pockets and tossed them into the mortar. Those attending the ceremony placed their business cards, medals, and newspapers into a bronze box that was placed in the base.
Architect Richard Morris Hunt drew inspiration from the base of the Lighthouse of Alexandria when designing the pedestal for the Statue of Liberty. The pedestal sits on a low pyramid atop 16-meter-high concrete foundations. It features a Doric base adorned with stone-carved shields, a shaft made of rusticated stones, and a loggia that adds a human scale. The top is crowned with a balcony. Inside the pedestal, two sets of beams connect the base directly to the internal structure designed by Gustave Eiffel, ensuring that the statue and its pedestal are unified.
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Fundraising proved difficult, and by 1885, there was a risk that the pedestal would not be built due to a lack of funds. Joseph Pulitzer, the publisher of the New York World, launched a donation campaign to raise the necessary money, attracting over 120,000 donors, most of whom contributed less than a dollar (equivalent to about $33 in 2025). The statue was made in France, packed in crates, and then assembled on the completed pedestal on what was then called Bedloe's Island.
• Joseph Pulitzer, (April 10, 1847 – October 29, 1911) a Hungarian-born American journalist and newspaper publisher known as a pioneer of socially engaged investigative journalism, lent the initial pages of the New York World to construction leaders to help raise funds. During this time, 50,000 new subscribers were added. The first stone of the pedestal, which contained a copy of the United States Declaration of Independence, was laid on August 5, 1884.
Sculpture and Marker, “Joseph Pulitzer”
Liberty Island, New York, NY 10004
• Inscription:
"As publisher of the New York World newspaper, this Hungarian immigrant conducted the editorial crusade that popularized the American Pedestal Fund Campaign. His last will and testament established the Pulitzer prizes for achievement in journalism, literature, music and art.
The Bender Foundation for the Bender Family
Howard and Sondra Bender
Philip Rathner – Sculptor"
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Above:
Left: Dedication plaque, Statue of Liberty, Liberty Island, Photo: National Park Service
https://www.nps.gov/parkhistory/online_books/hh/11/hh11j.htm
Right: Mural, "President Grover Cleveland inaugurating the Statue of Liberty", 1949, by James Seeman, lobby of The Grover Cleveland Apartment Building at 67-38 108th Street, Forest Hills, NY 11375
GPS: 40.727897, -73.847563 Photo: https://www.flickr.com/photos/30484128@N03/32877704953
Bottom: granite strip marker, 1 N. Broadway, New York, NY 10007, GPS: 40.704879, -74.014121
Photo by TC © ASSFI
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• The French Government provided a ship named Isère to transport the statue to the United States. The Isère departed from Rouen on May 21, 1885, and reached Sandy Hook, the entrance to New York Harbor, on June 17. Once the title of the statue was handed over to General Stone, the ship docked at Bedloe's Island.
• On Oct. 28, 1886, President Grover Cleveland dedicated the Statue of Liberty In addition to the officials surrounding the piedestal of the statue, and hundreds of ships gathering around the island. The ceremony included speeches by the president and French engineer Ferdinand de Lesseps (of Suez canal fame), Chauncy Depew, president of the Union League Club, among many others.
• The statue’s designer, Frederic-Auguste Bartholdi, who was perched in the statue’s torch, pulled a rope removing a large French flag from the front of the statue, revealing Lady Liberty’s face to the crowd. He was quite impatient however, and in doing so, he interrupted New York Senator William Evarts' speech.
• President Grover Cleveland then accepted the statue on behalf of the United States, delivering memorable words: "We will not forget that Liberty has here made her home; nor shall her chosen altar be neglected."
• Only dignitaries were invited to attend the statue’s official dedication ceremony, but an estimated one million people took part in a parade and festivities around New York to mark the occasion. No black people were invited to the inauguration of this monument, which was also supposed to inspire the end of slavery, nor was Joseph Pulitzer, a Hungarian-born Jew, or women, hence the demonstration by suffragettes. A celebration was held in Lower Manhattan, starting at City Hall and ending at Battery Park, with a view of the statue, on a cold and rainy day. Hundreds of thousands lined the sidewalks, waving French and American flags. A huge fireworks had to be cancelled and postponed until November 1st.
• The first "ticker tape" parade1: back then, the building hosting the New York Stock Exchange wasn't built. Office workers at different brokerage firms along Broadway couldn't join the crowd on the sidewalks, and started throwing discarded tapes laying on the floor by the windows. Everyone was in awe with the overall festive effect, effectively starting the tradition. Once everyone on the streets realized how festive and fun it was to throw the ticker tape, it started to become a regular tradition. City officials began to schedule parades for every special or triumphal occasion.
• In that day’s edition, The New York Times described the building excitement for the ceremony: “All day yesterday people came to the city in droves to participate in to-day’s celebration. Extra heavily loaded trains, much behind schedule time, were the rule on every railroad entering the city. Every hotel was crowded to its utmost capacity last night, and there was hardly one of the better known hotels which did not have to turn away hundreds of would be guests.”
• Interestingly, the only immigrants mentioned at the dedication in 1886 were the “illustrious descendants of the French nobility” who fought on behalf of the United States against Britain during the American Revolution (https://archive.nytimes.com/cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/10/26/how-a-sonnet-made-a-statue-the-mother-of-exiles/)
• The initial miniatures of the statue, created by the Gaget-Gauthier company, were sold and given to the numerous VIPs present at the inauguration ceremony on October 28, 1886. These miniatures also served as templates for the different replicas that were later produced...
Note: 1. The first parade on Broadway ever was with the Marquis de Lafayette, on August 16, 1824, but the "ticker tape" had not yet been invented!
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Tribute to all the ”Statue of Liberty” Replicas
Throughout the United States of America...
“Strengthen the Arm of Liberty”
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Above:
Top Left: Cover, Scouting Magazine, February 1949
Top Right: typical bronze plaque affixed at the base of most Boys Scouts of America (BSA) replicas.
Bottom: Edmond Boy Scouts at the original Statue of Liberty dedication in 1951, Edmond, Oklahoma. Courtesy of the Edmond Historical Society ORG XMIT: KOD Edmond Historical Society, as published in The Oklahoman, June 23, 2007. It is touching to see how most local municipalities care for their replicas. In the case of Edmond, OK, it was restored three times, until a new bronze replica of the replica was re-dedicated in 2007 upon the centennial of the State of Oklahoma.
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A powerful symbol throughout America
• "Lady Liberty" doesn't reside just in New York harbor....We would like to pay tribute to the Boy Scouts of America, who, in 1950, implemented a program called “Strengthen the Arm of Liberty”.
• It was the theme of the Boy Scouts of America's fortieth anniversary celebration in 1950. The campaign was inaugurated with a dramatic ceremony held at the base of the Statue of Liberty in New York.
• About 206 BSA Statue of Liberty replicas were installed in 39 States across the United States, as well as its possessions and territories, between 1949 and 1952.
• The project was the brainchild of Kansas City businessman, J.P. Whitaker, who was then Scout Commissioner of the Kansas City Area Council.
• The replicas were manufactured by the Friedley-Voshardt Company in Chicago and purchased by Boy Scout troops through the Kansas City Boy Scout office.
• The statues, each built around a wooden frame, are approximately 8 1/2 feet tall without the base and constructed of sheet copper, weighing 290 pounds. • They originally cost $350.00 each plus freight.
• They were donated in 39 states in the U.S. and several of its possessions and territories.
• Jack Whitaker's promotional literature in 1949 stated:
"Americans, more than ever before, need to be reminded that freedom, like life itself, is preserved only through vigilance and care.”
• In addition to these "BSA" replicas, there are many replicas in stone or other materials that have been erected throughout the nation. Annex IV of our compilation "French Memories in the United States" gives a much more comprehensive list of all these statues, with photo, postal addresses, GPS coordinates, transcription of plaques, and relevant websites links. We will feature a few in the pages below.
• There are also innumerable Statues of Liberty, several of them very distinct from the original, some of dubious taste, decorating businesses or private properties...which is quite impossible to tally. They are tangible displays of the patriotism and enterprising spirit of their owners. Patrons and tourists love to photograph them or take selfies, whether they are in a pizza restaurant, tourists T-shirt and luggage shops, tax-services businesses, etc.... Even on cable TV networks, where insurance companies capitalize on "Lady Liberty"...
It can be said that the statue is Americana, at its best.
What follows is a selection (admittedly subjective) of these cherished statues, replicas of both "BSA" and other provenance, throughout different States.
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Above:
Statue of Liberty, Liberty Park, Vestavia Hills, Birmingham, AL 35242 (with view of I-459 on the background). GPS: 33.482320, -86.707250 Photo: By Cullen Steber - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0
https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=95261855
Bottom Left:
Linn Park, Jefferson County Courthouse, 716 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N, Birmingham, AL 35203 GPS: 33.521290, -86.809390 Photo: https://www.waymarking.com/waymarks/WMEC8T_Statue_of_Liberty_Birmingham_Alabama
Bottom Right: replica, 403 AL-10, Abbeville AL 36310, GPS: 31.572383, -85.258383 Photo: by James L.Whitman, 2023, https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=214431
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There are 6 replicas in Alabama, we are presenting here three of them:
• The 36-foot tall (1/5 scale) replica of the Statue of Liberty can be found in Liberty Park at 516 Liberty Parkway in Vestavia Hills, Alabama, right next to the Greater Alabama Council, BSA office. The bronze statue is perched on a 60-foot granite pedestal in the middle of Liberty Park. A huge star is embedded underneath and radiates on the plaza. It was cast in 1956 at the Antoine Durenne foundry in Somerville Haut Marne, France. This bronze statue is among the largest replicas of the famous French statue located in New York Harbor. Although its torch isn't as large, it shines brightly with a real gas flame that burns continuously, day and night.
• A BSA replica stands along the Jefferson County Courthouse, without a pedestal or the usual BSA bronze plaque
• A replica of the Statue of Liberty is located on Alabama 10 in Abbeville to pay tribute to Giuseppe Reina, the grandfather of Jimmy Rane, who is the founder and CEO of Great Southern Wood Preserving in Abbeville. Reina came to America from Sicily in 1907 when he was 29 years old.
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Above:
Left: In front of Oyo Hotel Yuma, 2655 S 4th Ave, Yuma, AZ 85364
GPS: 32.679110, -114.624292 Photo: Image Capture March 2024 (c) Google Maps
Right: Entrance of Johnston-Stewart Co., N Alma School Rd, Mesa, AZ 85201 GPS: 33.443000, -111.856528 Photo: Image Capture March 2017 (c) Google Maps
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• The miniature version of Lady Liberty in Yuma, standing about ten feet tall, is crafted from copper-colored scrap metal. It is positioned in front of a mural depicting lower Manhattan on the exterior wall of a motel. This statue was installed in 2022.Weighing around 400 pounds, this representation of the Statue of Liberty is constructed from repurposed steel.
• Very little is known about this replica in Mesa, standing at the entrance of an industrial site. The pedestal is made of concrete blocks piled up.
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Above:
Left: Washington Regional Medical Center, 3215 N. Northhills Blvd., Fayetteville, AR 72701
GPS: 36.110299, -94.159708 Photo: By Valis55 - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=38783644
Right: In front of City Hall, 10th Avenue between Georgia and State Streets, Pine Bluff, AR 71601
GPS: 34.219472, -92.001083 Photo: By Valis55 - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=49415387
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There are 10 BSA replicas of the Statue of Liberty in Arkansas, (Jonesboro, Hardy, Haskell, Sherwood, Pine Bluff, Strong, Fayetteville, Paragould, Sheridan, Benton) we are presenting here two of them:
• The Fayetteville statue is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
• The Pine Bluff statue is the first one erected in the South. It stands 8 feet (2.4 m) tall and is crafted from copper, resting on a concrete base that is 3.5 feet (1.1 m) high. On October 7, 1950, a dedication ceremony took place where the Kiwanis and Lions clubs gifted a statue to the Boy Scouts. The Boy Scouts then donated it to the City of Pine Bluff. Approximately 1,000 attendees were present for the event, which featured a parade with 200 Boy Scouts and four marching bands. In 2000, the statue was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
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Above:
Left: City hall courtyard, John Simms Park, 16600 Civic Center Dr, Bellflower, CA 90706 GPS: 33.883240, -118.133440
Photo: Photo: Smithsonian National Postal Museum, from the portfolio Statues of Liberty https://postalmuseum.si.edu/object/saam_1988.13.4
©, H. Arthur Taussig
Right: El Monte City Hall, 11333 Valley Blvd, El Monte, CA 91731
GPS: 34.071001, -118.030587 Photo: https://www.instagram.com/myelmonte/p/C56-UkQP3CE/
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• The replica in the courtyard of City Hall holds a torch high in her right hand. In her left elbow, she supports a book or tablet. Dressed in robes of Classical design, she also wears a crown resembling a star. The statue is positioned on a pyramidal base.
• The statue in El Monte is constructed from fiberglass, whereas the one in New York is made of copper. Dr. Jing T. Wang, a Taiwanese immigrant and local dentist made the donation to the City in 1987.
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Above:
Left: Las Animas County Recorder office, 200 E First St, Trinidad, CO 81082 GPS: 37.168400, -104.503620 Photo: By bridgepix - Flickr, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=5150014
Center: Pueblo County Government Building, 215 W 10th St, Pueblo, CO 81003 GPS: 38.276265, -104.609511 Photo: Photo: https://www.flickr.com/photos/145229933@N08/26322426489
Right: Weld County Courthouse, 901 9th Avenue, Greeley CO 80631 GPS: 40.423733, -104.692867 Photo: By Brian LoBue - Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=5150831
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There are 16 replicas in the State of Colorado. We are featuring here three of them.
• On the corner of First and Maple, the Statue of Liberty in Trinidad was paid for by the pennies of local troops of the Boy Scouts of America and other school children, and erected in 1950.
• The replica in Pueblo has an additional bronze plaque:
• Inscription:
“Ring of Honor
Honoring Pueblo County Armed Forces Personnel
Who died defending our freedom and
Pueblo’s Congressional Medal of Honor Recipients”
• The replica in Greeley is situated in front of the Weld County Courthouse, this statue was built in the 1950s. It is part of the Greeley Downtown Historic District. The statue was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2008.
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District of Columbia
Résidence de France
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Above:
Statue de la Liberté draped in Ukrainian Flag, Résidence de France (French Ambassador’s residence) 2221 Kalorama Rd NW, Washington, DC 20008 GPS: 38.918044, -77.050623
Photos: TC © ASSFI November 2024
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• The statue, a one-sixteenth replica of the original, is a symbol of the enduring friendship and shared values between the United States and France.
• Journey to Washington:
The statue, which weighs 1,000 pounds, traveled from France to the U.S. in a special plexiglass case, making a stop on Ellis Island before being installed at the French Ambassador's residence in Washington, D.C.
• 10-Year Loan:
The statue is on loan to the U.S. for 10 years, after which it will return to the Musée des Arts et Métiers (Museum of Arts and Crafts) in Paris.
• Bastille Day Unveiling:
The replica was unveiled on Bastille Day (July 14th) 2021 at the French Ambassador's residence.
• Location:
The statue is now displayed in the garden in front of the French Ambassador's residence in Washington, D.C., where it is visible to passersby.
• Inscription on plaque:
"Liberty Enlightening the World"
"Bronze of the "original model" by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, 2010
"Dominating the New York Bay since 1886, the Statue of Liberty is the best known work of Bartholdi. The statue was a gift from France to the United States. This bronze was crafted from the original 1878 plaster model at 1/16 by Auguste Bartholdi, displayed in the church of the Musée des Arts et métiers /Cnam.
Gift of Mr. Guillaume Duhamel to the Cnam.
Loan from the Conservatoire national des arts et métiers / Cnam to the Résidence de France in Washington D.C.
The CMA CGM Group, a world leader in shipping and logisitics, mobilized its expertise for the journey of this symbol of friendship between France and the United States."
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There are replicas in Jacksonville, Mulberry, Tallahassee, Bartow, Pensacola, Sarasota, Mount Dora, Ocala, Seminole, Clermont, Milton, St. Cloud, Tampa, Apalachicola, Pompano Beach, Orlando; we are showing here two of them:
Statue at Liberty Park, Pompano Beach, FL:
• Inscription of plaque (excerpts):
“On July 4, 1884 the Statue of Liberty was presented to America by the people of France. The Statue was a gift of international friendship and is one of the most universal symbols of freedom and democracy.
Liberty Park incorporates many of the same metaphoric ideals as "Lady Liberty,” but most of all it stands as a monument to our friendship and sense of community"[...]
Erected by City of Parkland and the Parkland Historical Society.”
Statue of Liberty at Orlando, FL:
• The copper statues were created by Friedley-Voshardt Co. based in Chicago, Illinois, and were acquired through the Kansas City Boy Scout office. Each statue stands about 8.5 feet (2.6 m) tall, excluding the base, is made from sheet copper, weighs 290 pounds (130 kg), and had an original price of $350 (which is roughly $3,900 in 2021) plus shipping costs. These mass-produced statues lack precise detail, and a conservator remarked that "her face isn't as mature as the real Liberty. It's rounder and more like a little girl's."
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Above:
Left: State Capitol grounds. Liberty Plaza, 218 Capitol Avenue S.W., Atlanta GA 30334 GPS: 33.748983, -84.387233 Photo: By Peatmanb - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=127080921
Right: Liberty Plaza, 3108 W Oak St, McRae-Helena, GA 31055 GPS: 32.068302, -82.900699 Photo: By Bubba73 - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=25467950
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There are replicas in Chamblee, Savannah, Rome, Stockbridge, Tallapoosa, Tallulah Falls-Clarksville, Cairo, Blue Ridge, McRae-Helena, Atlanta. We are showing two of them:
Statue, Capitol grounds, Atlanta:
In 1951, the Atlanta Council of the Boy Scouts of America dedicated a replica of the Statue of Liberty, which is located outside the Georgia State Capitol. This replica honors the 40th anniversary of the Boy Scouts and embodies the motto, "Strengthen the Arm of Liberty." Standing at 8 1/2 feet tall, it is a smaller version of the original Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor, a symbol that greets visitors, immigrants, and returning Americans.
Statue, McRae-Helena, GA:
• This statue is 1/12th the size of the original. This local replica of the Statue of Liberty was created by the Lions Club using found and recycled materials in 1986 to honor the national symbol during its 100th anniversary. It is a prominent landmark in the area and serves as the focal point of a small park dedicated to Telfair County's fallen soldiers, which also includes a replica of the Liberty Bell.
• The head of the figure is sculpted from a gum tree stump using a chainsaw. The sculpture is coated with fiberglass resin and features a steel support inside. It stands on a short fiberglass base, which is placed on a steel foundation designed to resemble a brick structure, complete with four columns on each side.
• The sculpture was initially created as a temporary piece, meant to be displayed for just six months. Known fondly as "Miss Liberty," it garnered such positive feedback from visitors that the Lions Club chose to renovate it for permanent installation. This project took place in the spring of 1991, and the sculpture was reinstalled on its new base in July of that year, just in time for McRae's Independence Day festivities.
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• No information is available on the replica in Honolulu.
• However, the replica in Guam (American Samoa) is a tourist attraction.
Paseo de Susana is a small peninsula that forms part of the city of Hagåtña, Guam. A replica of New York's Statue of Liberty is situated behind the Paseo Recreational Park in Agana. This statue was given by the Boy Scouts of America to celebrate their 40th Anniversary and symbolizes freedom and liberty. Similar to the original in New York, it greets tired travelers arriving on land.It was made of copper pennies collected by the Guam Boy Scouts.
• Inscription:
“In 1950 as a part of a nationwide program celebrating the 40th anniversary of their organization, the Boy Scouts of America donated a replica of the Statue of Liberty to Guam. This statue was one of many produced and erected throughout the United States and its territories. Made of copper, this original Statue was dedicated on July 21, 1951 as a part of the Liberation Day ceremonies of that year. The plaque commemorating the original plaque read as follows: "With the faith and courage of their forefathers who made possible the freedoms of these United States, the Boy Scouts of America dedicated this copy of the Statue of Liberty as a pledge of everlasting fidelity and loyalty. 40th anniversary crusade to strengthen the arm of liberty." 1950 On February 8, 1990, the original statue and plaque were vandalized. Under the leadership of the Department of Parks and Recreation, efforts were marshalled to replace Miss Liberty to her rightful place here at the Paseo. This replacement statue has been donated through the generous efforts and donations of the "Komitea Para l Minaolek Guahan", the "Guam Young Republicans Federation" and the present Paseo de Susana Park vendors... all who desire for Miss Liberty to always grace our island of Guam.”
Honorable Joseph F. Ada, Governor, Honorable F r a n k F. Blas, Lt. Governor, James W. Ferrante, Chairman, Parks and Recreation Commission, Dept. of Parks and Recreation, Government of Guam, Anthony C. Mariano, Director, Dept. of Parks and Recreation, Dennis M. Zermeno Deputy Director, Dept. of Parks and Recreation”
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Statue at Sandpoint, ID:
• In 2003, Lady Liberty was gifted in honor of Louise (Lee) Turner, who had the statue in her garden. She was a prominent local entrepreneur, known for owning two restaurants near Lake Pend Oreille.
• Inscription:
“Donated in Loving
Memory
of
Louise Lee Turner
July 2003 ”
Statue at Caldwell, ID:
It is a BSA replica with the standard bronze plaque depicted above at the beginning of this chapter.
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There are replicas in the cities of East Peoria, London Mills, Oregon, Waukegan, Galina. We are showing these two:
• The statue was donated to Warsaw by Frank H. Conner, who grew up in the city before moving to Chicago. Mr Conner bought one of the first fifty miniature statues created by Jack Whittaker of Kansas City, Missouri.
• “The unveiling of the Statue of Liberty replica in Warsaw Monday was a thrilling experience to those of us who know what liberty – or lack of liberty can mean. Even though we are in a shooting war against Communists, it is sometimes difficult for us in the middle of the United States to grasp the significance of loss of liberty”…“As we pass Ralston Park from time to time and view the statue, may we take a moment from the cares of our work-a-day world to give thanks that we are privileged to live in America.” -Attorney William Angell-Attorney William Angell» (Source: https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=243911)
• Benton is a city in Franklin County, Illinois, United States. It is the county seat of Franklin County.
• This replica stands outside the Benton Public Library on South Main Street. She has been at this library since 1950, but a few years ago, weather damage and vandalism led to her being restored. They applied a lighter finish, allowing the beautiful copper patina. The rededication ceremony ocurred on July 4, 2011.
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Above:
Left: Marshall County Courthouse, 211 W Madison St, Plymouth, IN 46563 GPS: 41.343867, -86.311150
Photo: by Courtesy - Carly C. Kindig, September 5, 2010
https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=44297
Right: St. Joseph County Courthouse, 101 South Main Street, South Bend IN 46601 GPS: 41.675800, -86.252183 Photo: By mandy pantz - Flickr, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=5150561
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There are replicas in the cities of Dupont, Greenfield, Gary, Dale, Terre Haute, Liberty, Madison, Peru, New Albany, Plymouth, South Bend. Here are two of them:
BSA Statue in Plymouth, IN:
In addition to the standard BSA bronze plaque, there is an additional plaque:
• Inscription :
“We Remember September 11, 2001”
“...Americans who have fallen,
American who have given their lives”... (rest of text illegible)
BSA Statue in South Bend, IN:
• Saint Joseph County in Indiana derives its name from the Saint Joseph River, which in turn was named after Saint Joseph, the patron saint of New France.
• From the beginning of New France, St. Joseph was called upon as a guardian and protector. On March 19, 1624, Father Joseph Le Caron, one of the earliest missionaries in Canada, noted that he had been designated the “Patron of New France.”
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There are some 26 replicas in the Great State of Iowa, making it the second State (after Kansas) most attached to this powerful symbol of Liberty. They are all quite moving; we chose these two, quite arbitrarily:
• In 1950, the Tall Corn (now Mid-Iowa) Council of the Boy Scouts of America donated this miniature Statue of Liberty to the State of Iowa as part of their annual service project. It stands on the State Capitol grounds. It has the standard BSA plaque.
• The BSA statue in Waverly has the standard BSA bronze plaque.
• Inscription on additional plaque:
[Plaque on the base of the statue honor those who served in various wars.]
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There are 29 replicas in the State of Kansas, making it Number One!
• Labette County, situated in Southeast Kansas, was established in 1867. It derives its name from LaBette Creek, which is the county's second-largest creek. This creek was named in honor of Pierre LaBette, a French-Canadian explorer and fur trapper who settled in the region, lived by the Neosho River, and married into the Osage tribe during the 1830s and 1840s. (https://www.ksgenweb.org/archives/labette/1901/20-26.html)
• The BSA statue of Liberty on the grounds of the State Capitol in Topeka has the standard BSA bronze plaque.
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• The replica in Fall River, MA. has the standard BSA bronze plaque
• The replica in Lawrence, MA was presented to the city by the North Essex Council of the BSA to commemorate the council's 25th anniversary. It can be found in the main lobby of the Lawrence Public Library. This replica of the statue was first located at the old Main library, just a few blocks away from the new library that was constructed in 1972.
• Inscription:
“The plaque indicates it was given to the city on July 9, 1950 by the North Essex Council of the BSA in commemoration of their 25th anniversary.
"Jack Whitaker, the Boy Scout Commissioner for the Kansas City Area Council, and a local businessman, started a program to celebrate Scouting’s 40th anniversary theme, "Strengthen the Arm of Liberty" by selling these statues. They are 8' 4" tall, made of copper, but appear more like a bronze casting. Braced from the inside, and usually set on a star shaped based, they appear much like the original in New York harbor. The arm is at a slightly different angle than the original, and there is usually a plaque in the base giving the Boy Scouts a mention. The statues were manufacured by Friedley-Voshardt Co. of Chicago, IL, and weigh about 300 lbs. Most of the statues were purchased through the Kansas City Boy Scouts for about $350."
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• The Statue of Liberty replica on Mackinac Island has been used every fifth year to commemorate the attacks on 9/11/2001, and the Patriot Day services were conducted at that location in 2006 and 2011.
Constructed from sheet copper using the same metalworking methods as the original Statue of Liberty, the smaller replica was showing signs of wear. Several parts of the crown had broken off, and the stone pedestal it stands on was worn down by the elements. A local photographer spotted the damage and contacted the American Legion Post 299 on Mackinac Island, which committed to restoring Mackinac Island's Lady Liberty to her former beauty. They organized fundraising efforts to cover the restoration costs and expenses for creating a new base and pedestal. The statue was restored in 2012 by Venus Bronze Works, Inc. in Detroit.
• The replica in Highland, MI is situated by a small pond next to a shopping center, where visitors can find a small square pontoon. At the center of this pontoon stands a replica of the Statue of Liberty, about 2.5 meters tall, featuring a notably wide torch.
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• The replica in Duluth, MN was installed in 1976 as a bicentennial project "for the children of Duluth" by Raymond E. Bartholdi, a Minnesotan who was actually a descendant of Frederic Auguste Bartholdi.
• The statue in Tyler, MN was installed by WWII Veteran Vernon Pedersen (1912-1992). It stands at 10 feet 4 inches and is set on a square base featuring a small door and stone pillars at the front (west side). Both the sculpture and the base are constructed from concrete and adorned with small stones, such as fieldstones, quartzite chips, and mica inlays. Each side of the base showcases a unique rock design. The torch of Liberty was once illuminated.
• Initially, the sculpture was placed at a service station owned by the Pedersen family in Arco. The artist's father, H.P. Pedersen (1883-1942),a potato farmer and gas station owner, started a scenic rock garden there in the 1930s, with assistance from his sons. Not unlike the famous “Facteur Cheval” in France, he would amass stones and make sculptures. His gas station made of rocks is still visible today.
• Vernon created the Statue of Liberty sculpture and added it to the garden after returning from military service in 1946. After the service station was sold in 1952, the Liberty statue, along with three other sculptures from the garden, was moved to Anderson Park. IAS files include an article from the Independent (Marshall, Minnesota), dated January 21, 1995.
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• In addition to the standard BSA plaque, the replica in Columbus, MS. has the following additional plaque:
• Inscription additional plaque:
“Erected by
Irvine Weitzenhoffer
and
T.A. McGahey
December 7, 1950”
• The replica in Lamar, MS, stands at the entrance of a private property and is flanked by the flags of the United States and the Sate of Mississippi.
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Above:
Left: State Capitol Grounds, 201 W Capitol Ave, Jefferson City, MO 65101 GPS: 38.578217, -92.172300 Photo: William Fischer, Jr., https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=62315
Right: 3440 S Lee's Summit Rd, Independence, MO 64055 GPS: 39.055619, -94.390570 Photo: William Fischer, Jr., https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=68494
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There are 21 replicas in the State of Missouri. Here are two of them:
• In 1890, a replica of the Statue of Liberty, known as the “Goddess of Liberty and Illumination,” was constructed in St. Louis at the intersection of 12th and Pine streets. Made from plaster and wood, this replica was not designed for durability. Over time, it deteriorated significantly, and plans were made to relocate it to Meramac Highlands. However, during the removal process, it collapsed, shattering its head into fragments. Ultimately, it was completely discarded and destroyed.
• This statue on the Capitol grounds is the 1950 replica from the Boys Scouts of America and has the standard BSA bronze plaque.
• In addition to the stard BSA bronze plaque, the replica in Independence, MO, home of president Harry S. Truman, has the following bronze plaque:
• Inscription of additional plaque:
“In celebration of the freedom we enjoy
as Citizens of these United States and
in recognition of the history of our community
This restored copy of the statue of Liberty is
re-dedicated as a gift to the people by the
Mayor and City Council and the
Beautification Commission of the
City of Independence
June 21, 2008”
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Above:
Left: Gibson Park, Park Dr N at 2nd Ave N., Great Falls, MT 59401 GPS; 47.507528, -111.306250 Photo: https://passbagger.org/statue-of-liberty-montana.htm
Right: Central Montana Historical Museum, Symms Park, 408 NE Main St, Lewistown, MT 59457 GPS: 47.071000, -109.414444 Photo: by Barry Swackhamer, August 17, 2019,
https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=143337
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• This replica in Great Falls, MT has the standard BSA bronze plaque.
• This replica in Lewinston, MT has the standard plaque with a marker next to it:
• Inscription on marker:
“This replica of the Statue of Liberty was obtained in about 1950 to help celebrate Boy Scouting, which was established in Great Britain in 1908. The Boy Scouts of America soon followed. J.P. Whitaker, then scout commissioner of the Kansas City Area Council, originated the Statue of Liberty replica program to celebrate scouting's 40th anniversary. Lewiston purchased one of the more than 200 Liberty replicas. In 1984, Bryan McConnell, with the LDS Troop 366 of Lewiston, restored the local replica and placed it in this area of Symmes Park. The full name is the Statue of Liberty-Liberty Enlightening the World. It was the idea of Edouard Rene de Laboulaye, president of the French Anti-Slavery Society. He inspired his friend, sculptor Frederic Bartholdi, to design the copper statue. Constructed by Gustave Eiffel, it was dedicated on that is now Liberty Island in New York harbor on October, 28, 1886. The statue was a gift to the United States from the people of France. Since 1886, it has welcomed immigrants to this country. The statue has been renovated three times, in 1938, 1984-86, and 2011-2012. Since 1933. It had been maintained by the National Park Service. Although the people of France paid for the statue, Americans had to pay for the base on which it stands. To help raise funds, Emma Lazarus wrote a poem which is graven on a tablet within the pedestal on which the statue stands. After McConnell restored the replica in 1984, he added a plaque at the site that gives the best known line from Emma Lazarus's famous poem: "Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.” Erected by Lewistown Historic Resources Commission.”
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Above:
Left: Veterans Memorial Gardens, 301 North Jeffers Street, North Platte NE 69101 GPS: 41.135667, -100.763317 Photo: by Cosmos Mariner, August 2, 2013, https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=125079
Right: Gage County Historical Museum, 101 N 2nd St, Beatrice, NE 68310 GPS: 40.266417, -96.752600 Photo: https://passbagger.org/graphics/liberty-statues/ne-beatrice-120413-02-600.jpg
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We chose these two out of the 17 replicas dotting the great plains of Nebraska:
• The replica in North Platte, NE has the standard BSA bronze plaque.
• The statue in Beatrice, NE was placed in front of the old Burlington Railroad passenger station, now the Gage County Museum, at the northwest corner of Court St (US-136 / NE-4) and N 2nd St.
• Right in front of the Beatrice ‘Liberty’ statue, there is a buried time capsule that is to be opened on July 4, 2057, 200 years to the date that the city’s founders celebrated on the same site.
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Above:
Left: New York New York Hotel & Casino, 3790 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89158 GPS: 36.1013344, -115.173564 Photo: New York-New York Hotel & Casino, By Kris1123 - Own work, CC BY 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=9934336
Right: 4211 W Sahara Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89102 GPS: 36.144246, -115.197242 Photo: UNLV University Libraries Photographs of the Development of the Las Vegas Valley, Nevada, http://n2t.net/ark:/62930/d1nk36d70
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The largest replica is in (where else?) Las Vegas:
• Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi passed away in 1904, just a year before Las Vegas was established.
• The statue was created by Primadonna Resorts, which is a predecessor of MGM Resorts International, the current owner of New York-New York. It was unveiled in 1997 when the casino opened.
• Vegas Liberty stands at about two-fifths the height of the original statue (150 feet compared to 350 feet), is significantly lighter (150 tons versus 308 tons).
• It is constructed from carved Styrofoam, covered with reinforced fiberglass and exterior drywall.
• In April 2011, the U.S. Postal Service revealed that they had mistakenly produced three billion postage stamps featuring a photograph of this replica, which would be available for public sale. In November 2013, the statue's sculptor, Robert Davidson, filed a copyright infringement lawsuit against the U.S. He was awarded $3,554,946.95 in royalties plus interest by US Court of Federal Claims government.
Another one, even more commercial, is also in Las Vegas:
• The statue has stood on Sahara Avenue for many years, having been dedicated in 1981. According to local historian James Reza, it may have originally promoted slices of “Liberty Pizza”.
• The shopping plaza features a Liberty Tax office along with various services, including sign printing, cell phone repairs, check cashing, and nail salons. Additionally, there are shops offering wigs, high heels, and bikinis, such as Sweet Seduction Bikinis, Exotic Shoes, Red Shoes, Ana Wet Lace Vegas, and Studio Lites Wigs & Fashions, all catering to the needs of dancers in Las Vegas.
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Yes, there are several replicas of the Statue of Liberty in the Empire State.
Actually, about 17 of them adorn public spaces. We feature two of them here:
• A replica in the city of Philadelphia, NY, a small town upstate nearby the Canadian border:
• Inscription:
“This Statue of Liberty was placed here in remembrance of 9/11 to honor all firefighters, policemen and rescue teams that put their lives at risk to help the innocent Americans on that unprecedented September day.
We also want to thank every man and woman who has ever fought for our country's freedom and everything it stands for.
We believe every American, no matter what their beliefs regarding war, should support the soldiers that risk their lives for us every day.
With the American military out on the front lines, we take comfort in knowing that our nation will always be free.
God Bless America
Placed by the Hoover family in September, 2011
Written by Chelsey Hale”
• Another replica, in Niagara Falls, also near the US-Canada border at Rainbow Bridge:
• Niagara's 15-foot Lady Liberty was erected in 1951, during the Korean War. This statue was a gift to Niagara Falls from the Boy Scouts of America and the Moose Lodge, symbolizing hope and freedom in difficult times.
• When Lady Liberty was first installed in Hyde Park, it was met with great enthusiasm. About 2,000 people attended a parade along Pine Avenue to the location on Hyde Park Boulevard, with 1,000 Boy Scouts marching proudly to welcome the statue.
• Over the years, the harsh weather in Niagara Falls took a toll on the statue. As the larger Lady Liberty in New York was being restored, Niagara Falls also sought to repair its own version.
• In 1985, the statue was taken down for restoration by local resident Paul Laurenzi. On July 4, 1986, coinciding with the 100th anniversary of the dedication of the Statue of Liberty in New York, Niagara Falls celebrated Liberty Weekend by rededicating its own Lady Liberty on a new base at the entrance to the Rainbow Bridge.
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Out of the 8 replicas in Ohio, here are two:
• The replica in Ironton, OH has the standard BSA bronze plaque.
• The replica in Cleveland, OH, has a plaque on its pedestal:
• Inscription:
“The Statue of Liberty Enlightening the World" was a gift of friendship from the people of France to the United States and is recognized as a universal symbol of freedom and democracy. The Statue of Liberty was designed by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and dedicated on October 28, 1886. Bartholdi was inspired by the French law professor and politician Édouard René de Laboulaye. It was designated as a National Monument in 1924 by Congress.
The statue is of a robed female figure representing Libertas, the Roman goddess of freedom, who bears a torch and a tabula ansata (a tablet evoking the law) upon which is inscribed the date of the American Declaration of Independence, July 4, 1776. A broken chain lies at her feet, which many believe represent the breaking free from tyranny and servitude. The seven spikes on the crown represent the seven oceans and the seven continents of the world, indicating the universal concept of liberty. The statue is an icon of freedom and of the United States: a welcoming signal to immigrants arriving from around the world.
The Statue of Liberty is made of copper on the exterior and comprised of cast iron and stainless steel for the internal structure. The Statue is 305 feet, 1 inch (about 93m) from the ground to the tip of the flame and 151 feet, 11 inches from the base to the torch. It is the equivalent height of a 22-story building and was the tallest structure in New York in 1886. The above replica is made of resin and is 7 feet high from the base to torch or approximately 1/20 the size of the original statue on Ellis Island.”
(other plaques are addresses of law firms in the building behind)
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Above:
Left: Cherokee National History Museum, 101 South Muskogee Avenue, Tahlequah OK 74464
GPS: 35.912467, -94.971167 Photo: By peggydavis66 - Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=9852590
Right: Laniel elementary School, 1727 South Harvard Avenue, Tulsa OK 74112 GPS: 36.136767, -95.940200 Photo: By William Fischer, Jr, 2017 https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=111406
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There are 17 replicas in Oklahoma, here are two:
• The replica in Tahlequah, OK has the standard BSA bronze plaque.
• The replica in Tulsa has an additional plaque:
• Inscription:
“Donated to the City of Tahlequah
by
Mr. & Mrs. Jim Thompson
Field Executive of Boys Scouts
of America
William D Kaufman July, 1950”
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Above:
Left: S.8th Street & Oakland Ave., Medford OR 97501 GPS: 42.323117, -122.876883 Photo: By Amanda from Portland, OR - Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=9817642
Right: 7930 SW 77th St, Redmond, OR 97756 GPS: 44.203325, -121.262243 Photo: By Another Believer - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=26364948
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• The replica in Medford, OR has the standard BSA bronze plaque.
• The statue in Redmond, OR is quite different. The Petersen gardens were established from the ground up by Rodolph Petersen, a Danish architect, in 1935. There is a distant resemblance with the Palais du Facteur Cheval in France.
• One of the platforms features a carved replica of the Statue of Liberty from rock. This statue serves more as a technical challenge than an exact reproduction of the original. Rodolph Petersen was born in Denmark on July 21, 1883, and moved to Oregon in 1906. There, he built a house, ventured into agriculture, and gradually expanded his land holdings to 300 hectares. In 1935, he began focusing on his garden, which grew significantly over time. Although he passed away in 1952, the garden remains in the family, which has since added a small museum.
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Above:
Left: Kiwanis Lake, 555 N Newberry St, York PA 17404 GPS: 39.968450, -76.741133 Photo: By Devry Becker Jones (CCO) 2020 https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=152330
Right: Island on Susquehanna River, US-22, Dauphin, PA 17018 GPS: 40.358803, -76.929689 Photo: Meanwhile in Pennsyslvania Facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=870553668444022&set=pcb.870554181777304
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• On February 10, 1951, the York replica was unveiled at the plaza of the York County Courthouse (now known as the Administrative Center). This presentation was made to the residents of York and Adams Counties by the York-Adams Council of the Boy Scouts. The replica was prominently placed at the plaza entrance to the courthouse.
• During the post-World War II period, the Boy Scouts played a significant role in the community. According to the 1957 history book "York, Pennsylvania: A Dynamic Community Forges Ahead," the York-Adams Council of the Boy Scouts had, as of June 1, 1955, a total of 64 Cub Packs, 96 Scout Troops, and 54 Explorer Posts, with a membership of 5,110 boys and 1,752 volunteer leaders.
• Inscription:
“Replica of the Statue of Liberty
Erected by Boy Scouts of America.”
• The Susquehanna River features a small replica of the Statue of Liberty that can be seen while driving by on Route 322. This mini statue was created in 1986 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the original Statue of Liberty in New York. Gene Stilp, a devoted fan, crafted it from fiberglass, taking just a few weeks to complete. Twelve men were needed to load and transport the 450-pound statue by boat. It was installed overnight in complete darkness on July 1, 1986. However, by 1992, the statue began to show signs of wear due to the elements. In January 1997, the Dauphin Borough Council allocated about $33,000 to construct a new version, which weighed 4 tons and was made from wood, metal, and fiberglass. This new statue was airlifted into place by helicopter and remains a cherished landmark in Pennsylvania today.
To discover more, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P4GcVOr-bcc
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South Carolina
"Statue of Liberty division"
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• This monument celebrates those who sacrificed in the “Statue of Liberty division” of the U.S. Army during World War II, a.k.a. “The melting Pot” Division. The monument was erected in memory of William Bratton Steele Chandler, Jr. and his beloved scouts.
• Inscription on granite slab:
“The 77th Infantry Division trained at Fort Jackson in 1942 and fought on Guam, Leyte, Kerama Retto, Ie Shima and Okinawa. Returning to Cebu, they took 6,500 Japanese prisoners. They then returned to occupy Hokkaido, Japan where the division was deactivated in 1946. The division suffered a total of 3,201 killed in action, 10,531 wounded and 133 missing in action.”
“Liberty Does Not Come Cheap”
• Inscription on marker:
“The "Statue of Liberty Division" was reviewed by England's Winston Churchill and President Franklin D. Roosevelt after it was reactivated here in 1942. The 77th fought in World War II Pacific campaigns of Guam, Leyte, Kerama Retto Islands, and Okinawa. It was inactivated after occupying Hokkaido, Japan, in 1946. War correspondent Ernie Pyle was killed in action with the 77th. Erected 1982 by 77th Infantry Division Association, Inc. (Marker Number 40-93.)”
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• The reproduction is located at McKennan Park in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. This bronze reproduction is a replacement for a missing wooden reproduction. It measures 9 feet (2.74 meters) tall.
• Inscription:
“Lady Liberty first graced McKennan Park in 1942 although the statue was not formally dedicated until August 1, 1943. As several thousand watched, twins Thelma and Elma Iverson unveiled a wood carving of the Statue of Liberty. The statue had been owned by pioneer Charles A. Sells who said that it was carved as a model by Frederic A. Bartholdi, sculptor of the Statue of Liberty located on Liberty Island, New York City. A public subscription conducted by the Sioux Falls Garden Club raised funds to buy the carving, and Sells presented a bill of sale to Mayor C.M. Whitfield. Years later the statue was removed because of vandalism. On October 28, 1886, when accepting the gift of the original Lady Liberty from France for America, President Grover Cleveland said, "We will not forget that Liberty has here made her home: nor shall her chosen altar be neglected.” The new bronze replica of the Statue of Liberty was placed on the restored stone pedestal in 2002 returning Lady Liberty to McKennan Park once again.” Erected 2003 by Dr. John Wichtman in honor of Jean Douglas Wichtman, "A Beautiful Life Lived", Minnehaha County Historical Society in Memory of Dr. Verlynne and Suzanne Volin.”
• Inscription additional plaque (East side pedestal):
“This replica of the Statue of Liberty is dedicated to all persons who support her ideals. She stands as a symbol of Liberty, Civility, Opportunity, Justice, and equality.”
• Inscription additional plaque (North side pedestal) :
“Statue of Liberty - By French Sculptor Frederic Auguste Bartholdi - Dedicated to the Preservation of Freedom For all Citizens. This Bronze replica of "Liberty Enlightening the World" was created by sculptor Serguei Iourov In February 2002. At the time of completion he stated. "Liberty should always be youthful, filled with life and holding her torch high, as high as she possible can."
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• The Statue of Liberation Through Christ, as it is known, reaches a height of 72 feet from the base of its pedestal to the top of its cross. This statue was conceived by Mr. Williams, a pastor of the World Overcomers church, which is considered a mega church with a school, a bowling alley, a roller rink, a bookstore, and, according to him, 12,000 members.
Several changes have been made from the original design. The pastor explained the reasons for each modification:
• The Statue of Liberation replaces the well-known inscription "Give me your tired, your poor..." with Roman numerals that represent the Ten Commandments.
• The seven spikes on her crown, which initially symbolized the seven oceans, now represent the seven redemptive names of Christ.
• A tear from her right eye symbolizes her concern for America, according to Williams. Church members believe that the Statue of Liberation signifies "America belonging to God through Jesus Christ.”
• Inscription at the pedestal (giant letters):
“America return to Christ”
• Another Lady Liberty, closer to the original (although the torch is replaced by a bulbous lighting globe) is standing tall on the grounds of the Sgt. Alvin C. York State Historic Park in Pall Mall, TN.
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Above:
Left: Texas State Capitol grounds, 201 W 14th St STE 104, Austin, TX 78711 GPS: 30.276033, -97.740617 Photo: By Daderot - Own work, CC0,
https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=52757000
Right: Flagpole Hill, FM 688 - US-80, Forney, TX 75126 GPS: 32.759790, -96.479016 Photo: https://www.facebook.com/photo.phpfbid=5275813279107927&id=276386395717332&set=a.280469348642370
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• The bronze miniature Statue of Liberty is mounted on a base made of native Texas limestone. It was gifted to the State of Texas by the Boy Scouts of America and was initially placed to the southwest of the Capitol. During the Grounds Restoration in the 1990s, the statue was moved to maintain the South Grounds' look from 1888 to 1915. While setting up the statue on its new base, preservationists discovered a time capsule. In early 2008, the Capitol Area Council buried this capsule at the Boy Scout camp near Bastrop, along with a plaque indicating it will be opened in 2076.
• This replica of the Statue of Liberty in New York harbor differs with the absence of a flame in the torch, in favor of other globes; in this case, a flame-shaped glass.
•It was cast in aluminum in 1986 and painted various foundries in Mexico and finished by the craftsmen at Little "Reds" Antiques, under the direction of Richard Whaley, where it was dedicated on December 7, 1986. It stood there for several years before its relocation in 2019.
• It was re-dedicated at its new location, now a designated City landmark, on December 7, 2019
• Each corner of the base supporting the statue has a flagpole. The southern flagpole displays the United States flag, the westernmost flagpole features the Texas flag, and the easternmost flagpole showcases the City of Forney flag.
• It is not related to the BSA replicas.
• Inscription:
(On book, in raised lettering:)
“JULY/IV/MDCCLXXVI”
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Above:
Left: Chimborazo Park, corner of N 33rd St and E Grace, entrance at 3215 E Broad St, Richmond, VA 23223 GPS: 37.525584, -77.413227 Photo: By Bernard Fisher, 2009, https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=16415
Right: Reclining, “Lady Liberty”Museum of Contemporary Art, Wilson Blvd EB at N Monroe St FS, Arlington, VA 22201 GPS: 38.881852, -77.102326 Photo: Zaq Landsberg, Reclining Liberty, 2021, Installation view at MoCA Arlington. Photo by Vivian Marie Doering. https://mocaarlington.org/exhibits/2023/zaq-landsberg-reclining-liberty/
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• The mini Statue of Liberty in Richmond, VA. is located on the Richmond National Battlefield. It was inaugurated on February 11, 1951, and it underwent restoration in preparation for the July 4, 1986 celebrations.
• The "Reclining Liberty" sculpture, a 25-foot-long replica of the Statue of Liberty in a reclining pose, was designed by contemporary artist Zaq Landsberg.
• “Reclining Liberty is a mashup of the Statue of Liberty and the giant reclining Buddha statues of Asia. The piece, coated in plaster resin, is sturdy enough to allow viewers to touch, climb, sit atop, lean up against the figure, and interact with the monument at a human level. Finished with copper paint and an oxidizing acid, the patina mimics the actual Statue of Liberty. The pose of the Buddha lying down is not just about death but is an illustration of one stage on the path to enlightenment. By merging the traditional Buddhist reclining pose and the quintessential American figurative symbol, Reclining Liberty asks the viewer to contemplate the status of the ideals the Statue of Liberty represents. Is the U.S. as an entity forever upright and tall, is it an eventual decline and fall, or is there another stage for the country that will transcend this symbol altogether? After all the events of 2020, and the unmooring of pretty much every American institution, this question is not just theoretical. Monuments are where the historical, the political, and the aesthetic meet.” (artist statement)
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• A copy of the Statue of Liberty is located in a strip mall in Everett, Washington.
• It is enclosed by a small black metal fence around its concrete base, which features a recessed spot that seems intended for a plaque, although there isn't one currently displayed. The torch is illuminated at night. The statue stands between 16 and 20 feet tall.
• A replica of the Statue of Liberty is in a beach near Seattle, called Alki. The original name of this settlement was "New York Alki." The word "Alki" means "by and by" in Chinook Jargon.
• This replica looks over Elliott Bay, located 2,900 miles to the west and 1/18 the size of the iconic Statue of Liberty in New York's harbor.
• In 2006, the statue was removed and a new one entirely recast in bronze from a mold of the original.
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• The Statue of Liberty tradition began with a prank in 1979 by the Pail and Shovel Party, which was led by UW-Madison alumni Leon Varjian and Jim Mallon ’79. Varjian and Mallon made a campaign promise that, if elected to the Wisconsin Student Association, they would bring the Statue of Liberty to Madison.
• Following a successful election, the Pail and Shovel Party honored their commitment to Lady Liberty by installing a Styrofoam head, arm, and torch of Lady Liberty on frozen Lake Mendota on February 22, 1979.
• It has been a tradition ever since as part of the Winter Carnival.
• The current inflatable version has been a staple of the winter carnival since 2019.
• Neenah's statue stands at approximately 15 feet tall, which is roughly one-tenth the height of the original statue. Bergstrom is a large car dealer based in Neenah – it employs more than 1,400 people.
• Inscription on pedestal:
“One Nation under God Indivisible
With Liberty and Justice for All”
• Inscription on Bronze plaque underneath:
“This Memorial is dedicated on this 100th birthday of Lady Liberty in honor of those who have given their lives to make freedom a continuing reality in Neenah. July 4, 1986. The employees of Bergstrom Enterprises.”
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Above:
Left: Goshen County Courthouse, 2125 East A Street, Torrington WY 82240 GPS: 42.065217, -104.182717 Photo: by Randy Bishop, 2015, https://passbagger.org/graphics/liberty-statues/wy-torrington-150613-06-600.jpg
Right: Platte County Courthouse, 800 9th St, Wheatland, WY 82201 GPS: 42.055474, -104.953039 Photo: Library of Congress, Public Domain https://www.loc.gov/item/2017704101/
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• The replica in Torrington, WY comes with the standard BSA bronze plaque, as well as an additional bronze plaque that reads:
• Inscription :
“Dedicated Nov. 11, 1950.
Constructed by William Dean.
Rocks donated by the Rex Young Society of Rock Hounds.”
• The replica in Wheatland, WY comes with the following plaques:
• Inscription:
(on figure's tablet:)
JULY/IV/MDCCLXXVI
(on top plaque of base:)
“This monument is dedicated to the men and women of/Platte county who served in the United States/Armed forces in World War II”
(followed by several hundred names listed in 5 columns)
(on middle plaque of base:)
“Monument restoration/sponsored by wtk woman's club/assisted by the citizens of Platte county/re-dedicated November 11, 1966/original monument dedicated November 7, 1943 “
(on bottom plaque of base:)
“Designed by/Harry E. Dearinger”
(plaques on the three other sides of the base contain list of names) unsigned.”
| | Back to Manhattan: one last look | | |
• This sculpture in Midtown was purchased in 2011 by real estate developer Leonard Stern from an art dealer in France and is made from the original small plaster model that sculptor Bartholdi blew up 16 times which was long-forgotten in the hands of an art dealer. It was replicated digitally, as French law allows only 12 replicas from an original. It was purchased for “well over one million dollars”.
• Inscription:
Bartholdi 1834-1904
“This statue, cast in bronze from the original plaster sculpture, was enlarged 16 times by the artist to create the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor, perhaps the most recognized symbol of freedom in the world.”
“It was presented as a gift to the American people and paid for by the citizens of France. The statue celebrates the core values of both countries: freedom, democratic government and the equality of man.”
“It also celebrates the bonds of friendship between our two countries and the vital financial and military assistance that France gave our Revolutionary Army commanded by George Washington during our young nation's hour of greatest need.”
• For Yankees fans, there is a replica outside the Audi lounge at Yankees Stadium. It is Americana at its best, and the ambiance is guaranteed! There is also another replica on top of a building nearby on 161st Street, and we will leave it up to you to spot it!
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• As we saw with the replica of the Statue of Liberty in South Carolina and its proximity with the Statue of Liberty Division of 1944, the powerful patriotic symbol that the statue represents, and in particular its torch, was not lost on the members of the "Greatest Generation".
• Such is the case in France and with the French people, who erected a series of "bornes", concrete monuments erected every kilometer all along the path of the U.S. Armed Forces from Normandy to Bastogne .
• Some of these monuments were offered and shipped in gratitude to the United States, as the example above shows. The Torch of Liberty is prominently displayed in each and every one of these "bornes".
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Epilogue 2:
Ongoing French tributes and celebrations
Statue of Liberty
D-Day 2014
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• As an homage to all the American Gi's who died in Normandy and to the estimated 180,000 others, who also made the ultimate sacrifice for theiberation of France, the association “The French Will Never Forget” planned a fitting, grandiose and moving tribute on June 6, 2014.
• On that day 3 helicopters took flight towards Liberty Island. Once properly positioned, they released one million rose petals over the Statue of Liberty. A Lady Liberty overlooking the two gigantic French and American flags of the association, which are very symbolic as they have been used in all the other events of the association including on Omaha Beach, and which were unfurled at her feet, by over 100 French and American children.
• On that day, once more, the French people expressed their gratitude to America, their oldest friend and ally, for their freedom they recovered. It was done in a grand and emotional fashion over the worldwide symbol of Liberty.
80th Anniversary, D-Day 2024
Two world symbols in Paris
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On June 6, 2024 for the 80th anniversary of D-Day, TFWNF assembled hundreds of French people around the replica of the Statue of Liberty in Paris. With the Statue in the forefront and hundreds of French people standing firmly behind her with French and U.S flags, and with the Eiffel Tower in the background, the power of the symbol was overwhelming, and the message was very clear: The French Will Never Forget.
In conclusion to this heartfelt "love letter" to Lady Liberty, we present below these twin post office stamps, hoping that they will remain common and not become rare collectible stamps:
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PART TWO
Tribute to the American Volunteers
who joined the Lafayette Flying Corps:
We continue our series started in October 2023 with individual tributes to members of the Escadrille Lafayette, later part of the Lafayette Flying Corps. To access our Bulletin dedicated to the Escadrille Lafayette, visit:
https://conta.cc/3Qz0Xjl (original version in English)
https://conta.cc/3QCRqYM (version en français)
This month we are paying tribute to another volunteer who fought for freedom and democracy:
Corporal Sidney Rankin Drew
"Mort Pour la France"
May 19, 1918
(La Neuville - Sire Bernard, Somme)
The first American actor to die in a World War.
Note*: "Mort pour la France" meaning "Died for France," is a legal term in France. It is an honor given to those who lost their lives in conflicts while serving the country. This phrase appears on their death certificates. Both French citizens and foreign volunteers can receive this recognition.
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Above:
Top Left: Sidney Rankin Drew, Photo: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/139815399/sidney-rankin-drew
Top Right: "Livret Militaire", Mémoires des Hommes, Ministry of Defense, https://www.memoiredeshommes.sga.defense.gouv.fr/fr/ark:/40699/m005239e4fd5e543/5242bd67c7259
Top Middle Left: Alain Dupuis, president of the Federation of French War Veterans in the United States, and 1st VP of our Society, planting flags on markers in Central Park, NY., Memorial Day 2022.
Photo TC © ASSFI 2022.
Top Middle Right: map of Central Park with the location on Sidney Rankin Drew 's marker with inset, Photo: https://www.nycgovparks.org/parks/central-park/monuments/406
Middle Left: article New York Times Dec 8, 1919,
Middle Right: His step-mother at his reburial
Bottom: excerpt from Photoplay Magazine, February 1919, https://archive.org/details/lifeandletterss00drewgoog/page/n14/mode/2up
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• Sidney Rankin Drew, Jr. was a silent film actor and director, son of Sidney Drew and his first wife, Mrs. Sidney Drew, and first cousin of actors John Barrymore, Lionel Barrymore, and Ethel Barrymore. Although his famous parents had hoped for him to choose another career than the theatre and sent him to military school, the draw of the family tradition was too strong. He toured in plays with his parents and his cousin Lionel, who encouraged him to enter motion pictures.
• He appeared in 36 films, and directed 14 films.
• In 1915, he volunteered for service with the Lafayette Escadrille flying corps. He was shot down and killed by the Germans in the last year of the World War.
• There is a marker in Central Park in his memory:
GPS: 40.773606, -73.972097:
• Inscription: "In Memory Of / S. Rankin Drew /
Killed In Action May-19-1918 / This Tree Was Planted /
May-19-1920 / By S. Rankin Drew Post / American Legion /"
• From the book "Life and Letters of Sidney Rankin Drew" published in 1921 by his step-mother, we draw the following excerpts:
In Memoriam Sidney Rankin Drew
A gallant spirit heroic in passing on to the great adventure
rendering to his country the supreme sacrifice.
New York, N. Y. - Montdidier, France
Sept. 19, 1891 - May 19, 1918
"Sidney Rankin Drew was the last of his line, almost the last member of the family of illustrious actors who bear that name. He was the first American actor killed in the World War.
Post No. 340 of the American Legion, which represents the affiliated amusement industries, has honored his memory by naming the Post for him. It is for the benefit of the S. Rankin Drew Post that this book is published, as many of young Drew's friends agreed that his letters would make an interesting volume even if compiled on a more pretentious scale than his father had intended.
In the Life and Letters of Sidney Rankin Drew you will read the stories of his adventures, his experiences in the army, his general outlook on life and above all you will discern his fine spirit, his splendid patriotism, and his idolatrous love and respect for his father".
- Sidney Drew, by James Montgomery Flagg
• ... And this poignant poem:
"Today my children came to me—
'Sidney Drew's dead',
They said.
I hope that Sidney Drew can see
Even from far eternity
Beyond these pallid April skies
The tribute of my children's eyes."
-- by Leonora Speyer
• Here are some excerpts of letters Sidney Rankin Drew wrote to his father from France:
" My host and hostess treated me like a lost child and no attention was overlooked to make my stay comfortable and cheerful. Such a thing as money was an insult to them.
[…] If you want to see France as you read about it in books with all its charms, hospitality and old-fashioned ideas, take a trip through the country. […]
If you ever come to France, pay a visit to Pau. It is simply beautiful
[…]
• His Father had advised him to stay with the French drawing from him the following comment:
"I am afraid your advice has come too late. If I only could have received it earlier! I believe that I can still put in a demand to stay in the French Army counteracting the one l put in for release. I am not sure and it is certainly not consistent, although I don't think it would reflect on my honor. I was never an actor who aspired to play Hamlet but I've been doing it with a vengeance for the past four months. "To be or not to be'—To join or not to join!"
• After much effort he finally got back into the French Army and left Paris for a camp to await orders to the front.
[…] "You can't beat the French for hospitality and courtesy. […] The captain has been perfectly charming to me. I think he rather likes Americans […] All the Frenchmen in my Escadrille, and indeed in the Group, are charming" […]
• The story of Rankin Drew's last flight was detailed to me by a member of his Esquadrille Harold Saxon, who was with him at the time and one of his close friends.
“On May 19th, shortly after the noonday meal, Drew's squadron was scheduled for a patrol. The squadron was divided into two formations — one above the other — acting as protection for one another. Drew was in the lower formation stationed near the chef de patrouille. The patrol was sailing along about 15 kilometers in German territory keenly eyeing a Boche patrol under them made up of five albatross combat machines. When the Boche machines came nearer and were directly beneath Drew's patrol, his zeal got the best of him. In an instant he was seen to break away diving directly into the midst of the Boche, directing fire from both machine guns at one of the five. Then in another moment his plane was seen to fall — diving until it crashed into the ground being followed by a victim, undoubtedly hit by that first well-directed gun-fire. As Drew went after his victim he was easy target for at least two of the other four in the German patrol and was either struck unconscious or killed outright by their fire. This took but a few moments and in the general mix-up that followed, Drew's squadron avenged his death. Three Boche paid the toll."
• Sidney Rankin Drew fell near the little town of Arvilliers north-east of Montdidier.
The Germans placed a bleak but significant monument over his grave, made of a wooden cross constructed from the struts of his wrecked plane.
Later his body was removed to Montdidier, France, and reburied at the Lafayette Escadrille Memorial at Marnes-la-Coquette, Departement des Hauts-de-Seine, Île-de-France, France.
| | Lafayette in North Carolina | | |
Lafayette in Raleigh, March 4th, 2025
A Night of Regency Splendor: Lafayette Ball Recap!
"March 4th, guests stepped back in time to dance the night away at a formal ball held in honor of Lafayette! From 6-9 pm, the atmosphere was filled with elegance and grace. Dance master Charles Steplively of Virginia expertly guided attendees through the steps of the era, while the enchanting melodies of live period music, performed by Syllabub, filled the room.While Regency attire was encouraged, all were welcomed to join in the festivities. It was a truly memorable evening celebrating history through dance and music!
Special thanks to Morgaine Beck for sharing photos and videos! We appreciate you"
Photos:
https://www.facebook.com/AmericanFriendsofLafayette
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Farewell to Fayetteville, NC
March 5th, guests were treated to an unforgettable evening at the beautiful Ralph and Linda Huff Orangery within the Cape Fear Botanical Garden.
"Attendees enjoyed an elegant dinner accompanied by lively music, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The evening's entertainment was a highlight, featuring dramatic portrayals of scenes from Lafayette's historic visit to Fayetteville.
This captivating performance was skillfully directed by Jeremy Fiebig, the talented theatre professor from Fayetteville State University and founder of Sweet Tea Shakespeare. It was a perfect blend of history, culture, and entertainment!
Congrats on the HUGE success of the Fayetteville, NC events by our fantastic Bicentennial committee!!!! Well done!!!!
Also, thank you to Morgaine Beck for capturing the evening"
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Lafayette in Charleston, NC
"An Unforgettable Evening at the Charleston Lafayette Ball!
We had a fabulous time honoring the 250th anniversary of Marquis de Lafayette’s Farewell Tour in America!
A huge shoutout to SCDAR Regent Alice Caskey and her amazing team—Betsy, Celeste, and Elizabeth—for making this event so special. And of course, thank you to our wonderful HODAR husbands for their support!
The General with our friend Beth Pantone, Regent of the Summerville DAR. The General with admirers, including a descendant of Carolina Lafayette Seabrook’s sisters!
Thank you to Katherine Vanzant Arno for capturing these beautiful moments!"
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Celebrating Lafayette’s Visit to Edisto Island, GA – March 17, 2025
"On Monday, March 17th, Edisto Island honored the 200th anniversary of General Lafayette’s 1825 visit with a day full of historic celebrations. From 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., attendees explored the island’s rich history through special events sponsored by the Edisto Island Historic Preservation Society, the South Carolina Historical Society, and the American Friends of Lafayette.
The day’s activities included visits to the William Seabrook House, the Graveyard of the Presbyterian Church on Edisto Island, and the Edisto Island Museum. A Lafayette reenactor brought history to life at the Seabrook House, making the event a truly immersive experience.
A wonderful tribute to Lafayette’s legacy and Edisto’s historic past! "
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March 28, Lafayette in Macon, GA
"I had the unique privilege to be in Macon, Georgia today to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the visit of the Marquis de Lafayette to that city. Atlanta Historic Dance performed some dances at the luncheon that was part of the celebrations. We danced two from the time period of the Revolutionary War and two from the time of his return tour to the U.S. in 1824-25. What fun!! Downtown Macon is beautiful! "
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Grand Lodge of Georgia - Free & Accepted Masons
"A special moment in Macon today as we commemorated the Bicentennial of General Lafayette’s Farewell Tour! Our Grand Master, MW Brother Mark Bradley, was honored to participate in this historic event alongside community leaders, historians, and Brothers across Georgia. Not every day you get to stand in the footsteps of a true friend of American freedom. Lafayette’s visit to Macon in 1825 left a lasting impression, and today, we proudly continue to honor that legacy of service, friendship, and brotherhood".
WB Dennis Snyder"
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Lafayette in Savannah, GA
"It was our pleasure to take part in the dedication ceremony for two stones at Battlefield Memorial Park honoring Barthélémy Pierre Gaspard Bathéon de Vertrieu and memorializing Marquis de Lafayette's visit to Savannah on his American Farewell Tour. Many thanks to The American Friends of Lafayette, The Society of the Cincinnati, Inc. and others involved in today's event."
| | Lafayette in Milledgeville, GA. | | |
Georgia Military College was honored to serve as the host site to the Lafayette 200th Anniversary Celebration Opening Ceremony, which commemorated the Marquis de Lafayette's historic visit to Milledgeville in 1825.
A highlight of the ceremony was the inspiring presence of our Junior College Corps of Cadets, standing proudly in formation, while the GMC Prep School’s Bulldog Brigade Band delivered renditions of both the French and U.S. National Anthems.
It was a profound honor to commemorate General Lafayette’s lasting legacy and celebrate his dedication to freedom and human rights. We started the day at the Georgia Military College and the Masonic Lodge. Highlight of my day was sitting in the same chair that Lafayette sat in 200 years ago today!! The American Friends of Lafayette In 2025, Benevolent Lodge #3 had the distinct honor of hosting a commemorative event celebrating Marquis de Lafayette’s legacy and his deep connection to Freemasonry. The event paid tribute to Lafayette’s 1825 visit to Milledgeville, during which he was warmly received by local Masons. Highlights included the display of the restored chair Lafayette sat in—a rare and treasured artifact. Guests experienced a solemn and historically rich tribute to the Brotherhood of Freemasons and Lafayette’s enduring ideals of liberty and fraternity.
Photos: The American Friends of Lafayette, https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1078609907627464&set=pcb.1078620397626415
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SAVE THE DATE
Lafayette Bicentennial
Events in April & May 2025
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Join us as Lafayette returns to Natchez after 200 years!
Sponsored by the American Friends of Lafayette, the Natchez
Historical Society, the Natchez Museum of African American
History and Culture, and the Historic Natchez Foundation.
Time and place:
Saturday, April 19, 2025
1:00pm – 4:00pm
Historic Natchez Foundation
108 S. Commerce Street
Natchez, Mississippi
The program:
- 1:00 pm - Lafayette (Ben Goldman) arrives
- 1:30 pm - Lafayette Visits Mississippi as the Guest of the Nation” Brother Rogers
- 2:00 pm - Musical Performance – Tyler Diaz
- 2:45 pm - “Lafayette Really Delivered!” – Chuck Schwam
- 3:00 pm - “Lafayette and the Anti-Slavery Cause” – Alan R. Hoffman
You can register for this FREE event by clicking: HERE
| | Lafayette in Saint Louis, MO | | |
Wednesday, April 23 - Saturday, April 26, 2025
We hope you will join us for the exciting activities comprising our fifth annual conference. You are welcome to participate in any and all elements that interest you by using the registration links below.
Wednesday, April 23
8:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
“Creole Culture and Identity in Upper Louisiana” Colloquium
hosted by
French Connexions Center of Excellence at Washington University in St. Louis
Register Online
Thursday, April 24
10:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
FHC Fifth Annual Conference
Full day conference at Washington University
5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Cocktail Reception at The Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum
Friday, April 25
Full day in Ste. Geneviève, Missouri
Chartered bus tour of French heritage sites, concluding with a private visit and dinner reception hosted by the St. Louis Mercantile Library
ADDITIONAL PROGRAM INFORMATION CAN BE FOUND: HERE
YOU CAN REGISTER FOR EVENTS BY CLICKING: HERE
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Please join the MSSDAR Mid-East District Chapters
and the American Friends of Lafayette
in celebrating the
Bicentennial of Lafayette’s
Farewell Tour visit to Missouri
On Saturday, April 26, 2025
9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.: Brunch at the Chatillon-DeMenil Mansion
3352 DeMenil Place
You can register for this event by clicking: HERE
12:00 a.m.– 1:00 p.m.: Gateway Arch Riverboat Cruise
Tickets may be purchased online: HERE
1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.: Welcome Ceremony on the Grand Staircase
Gateway Arch National Park
You can register for this event by clicking: HERE
9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.: MISSOURI HISTORICAL SOCIETY
LAFAYETTE MEMORABILIA ON DISPLAY
Missouri Historical Society Library & Research Center
225 S. Skinker Blvd.
6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.: Bicentennial Commemorative Dinner & Ball
Rose of the Hill, 2300 Edwards St.
Tickets may be purchased online: HERE
RECOMMENDED ATTIRE: Period Dress or Cocktail attire
| | Lafayette in Cincinnati, OH | | |
A Cincinnati-area Committee with representatives from multiple local and national organizations including Daughters of the American Revolution, Sons of the American Revolution, Free & Accepted Masons, Alliance Francaise de Cincinnati, Cincinnati History Library & Archives, American Friends of Lafayette, the Lafayette Trail, Inc, and others, have collaborated to Celebrate, Commemorate, and Educate about Lafayette and his visit to Cincinnati.
Join us this May 19th-20th as we honor him with several delightful activities, including:
- May 19, 11:00 am: Opening Ceremony, Welcoming Lafayette at the Historic Marker near the Paddle Wheel sculpture on the Public Landing. Lafayette will be portrayed by a historical interpreter. The Mayor will provide a Proclamation. Join members of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) in wearing period attire (admired but not required). The SAR Color Guard will provide a salute. Open to all, free of charge
- May 19, 6:30 pm: The Lafayette Gala Formal Dinner & Ball, Enjoy delicious French cuisine, greetings from many Dignitaries of local and national organizations including DAR and Freemasons, Lafayette (portrayed by AFL Interpreter), SAR Color Guard, Keynote Speaker Julien Icher, President and Founder of The Lafayette Trail, Inc., Cincinnati Civic Orchestra and Ballroom Dancing (with a professional instructor). This will be a ticketed public event.
- May 20, 10:30 am: Tribute to Lafayette and Fanny Wright at Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum, Rose Garden Gazebo. A tribute to Fanny Wright, close friend of Lafayette and fellow abolitionist and supporter of equal rights for women. Educational speakers, Lafayette and Fanny Wright will be portrayed by historical interpreters. Following the presentations will be a visit to Fanny’s grave to lay flowers. Open to all, free of charge
You can register for events by clicking: HERE
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Announcing commemorations with
the Federation of French War Veterans
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You are cordially invited to join us at the following commemorations:
Sunday May 4, 2025, 10:30AM : Mass to celebrate V-Day of May 8, 1945, as well as the liberation of Deported and Prisonners of War, Saint Joan of Arc,at Eglise Notre-Dame, 405 West 114th Street, Manhattanby Father Jean Sébastien Laurent. A wreath laying ceremony will ensue to honor the 463 French and American conscripts and volunteers who "Died for France" during the two world wars.
12:30PM: lunch at Le Monde restuarant, 2885 Broadway (between 111 and 112th Streets). Price is $100 p.p.. Please send your check to Henri Dubarry, treasurer, 62-17 37th Ave. Woodside, NY 11377
Thursday May 8, 2025, 10:00AM: Federal Cemetery at Cypress HIlls, 625 Jamaica Avenue, Brooklyn, NY: ceremony in the presence of a color guard of the French Navy to honor the memory of 25 French sailors who Died for france in 1918 in New York.
On the same day, in Albany, NY, at 3:00PM, The General Consulate of France in New York and the New York State Military Museum hold a special event to honor the 80th Anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day and pay tribute to the heroes of World War II,
hear from distinguished military historians, and witness the unveiling of a restored marker (borne) from the Chemin de la Liberté (similar to the one depicted in our Epilogue above).
Light refreshments will be served.
RSVP by April 30th to: albany@agenceconsulaire.fr
Time: 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Location: NYS Military Museum, 61 Lake Avenue, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Sunday, May 25, 2025 at 10:00AM: Invitation by Brig. Gen. (Ret) Tom Principe at Park Avenue Armory (between 66th and 67th Streets) - to celebrate Memorial Day, we will participate in the parade with the US Army NY National Guard from the Armory to the Seventh Regiment Memorial at Central Park and 67th Street.
Memorial Day, Monday May 26, 2025 at 11:00AM: Parade at Douglaston, NY (Little Neck Parkway and 25A)
We look forward to seeing you at these events and to celebrate the unbroken ties of alliance and brotherhood between United States and France.
As every year, our Society is honored to be invited on Sunday, May 4th by the Washington Memorial Heritage Society to participate at the Annual Mass at George Washington Chapel, Valley Forge, PA. and to lay a wreath to celebrate the Treaties of Alliance, Friendship and Commerce between France and the United States, signed in Paris on February 6, 1778, by which France was the first nation to officially recognize by treaty the independence of the United States. This memorial service was decreed by General George Washington to be held in perpetuity the first Sunday of May (when Congress ratified the Treaty). Look for photos in our Bulletin next month!
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The Orchestre national Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
The Lafayette Tour
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The Orchestre national Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes is organizing a United States tour to celebrate the bicentennial of the Marquis de Lafayette’s travels back to America as “Guest of the Nation”, 50 years after his heroic fight for American Independence. Born at the Château de Chavaniac, in Auvergne, the Marquis de Lafayette is an emblematic historical figure who fought and shed his blood for America’s cause. He is a lasting symbol of the strong bond between France & the United States.
The tour will focus on some key cities and landmarks of Lafayette’s visit in 1825 : Washington, Charleston, Nashville, New Orleans, the United States Military Academy at West Point, and Mount Vernon.
Led by conductor Thomas Zehetmair, the Orchestre national Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes will perform a wonderful program related to Lafayette’s story.
For the complete tour, click: https://onauvergne.com/en/
About the Orchestra:
Since it was founded in 1981, the French National Orchestra Auvergne- Rhône-Alpes has always strived to reach a broad audience both regionally and internationally. Nestled in the heart of the French mainland, the ensemble is praised amongst orchestral music lovers for its unique sonority, strength, and quest for absolute perfection.
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Great News from the "Merci Train"
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"Merci train" story: click above or: https://vimeo.com/18495973
• Our November 2022 Bulletin narrated the incredible story and ongoing legacy of the "Train de la Reconnaissance Française", affectionately called "The Merci Train" (November 2022: "The Merci Train, 49 boxcars of French gifts"
https://conta.cc/3OLtgJ3 (original version in English)
https://conta.cc/3VpKzRP (version en français)
• The Merci Train, the 40&8 National Box Car Association and many other local organizations, custodians of the various "Merci train" boxcars in several States are planning various events throughout the year. We invite you to check their respective websites and follow them on social networks. We express our admiration for the fantastic work they are doing and we are honored to help get the word out.
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Breaking news:
The New Jersey Boxcar has been found!
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A Press Release dated March 24, 2025 from United Railroad Historical Society of New Jersey:
New Jersey's "Merci Train" Boxcar, believed to have been destroyed for more than 60 years has been found—and it is returning home to New Jersey!
"URHS is thrilled to announce that the National WWI Museum and Memorial has donated this historic boxcar to our organization, and it will undergo a full restoration at our shop in Boonton, NJ.
This boxcar is a truly once-in-a-lifetime discovery. In 1949, France gifted 49 of these boxcars to the United States as a symbolic gesture of gratitude for American aid during and after World War II. The cars, known as "40 and 8" boxcars, had been used to transport troops during World War I and themselves are 130 years old. When they arrived in America, they were filled with heartfelt gifts from ordinary French citizens—many of which remain preserved today in the collections of the New Jersey State Museum and The Newark Museum of Art. While most of the 49 boxcars (one for each state and Washington D.C.) are displayed in museums and parks across the country, New Jersey’s car was one of six that had been lost to time—or so we thought.
In 1993, the National WWI Museum & Memorial discovered this boxcar languishing in a field in Tennessee. The museum accessioned the car into its collection and placed it in a Kansas City, MO, warehouse for safekeeping. In 2024, thanks to the dedication of museum staff and Merci Train historians, the car was positively identified as New Jersey’s missing boxcar. The museum has now chosen to return the car to its rightful home, and we are honored to serve as its new caretakers.
To transport the boxcar from Kansas City to New Jersey, URHS is raising $20,000. These funds will cover preparation, stabilization, shrink-wrapping, and transportation of the car via flatbed truck. Any additional funds will support an initial evaluation by a historic architect. We are especially grateful to the appropriately-named Boxcar, our first platinum sponsor, for jumpstarting this effort with a generous $7,500 donation!
The Merci Train boxcar represents more than just railroad history—it is a symbol of international friendship, gratitude, and the enduring legacy of those who served in the World Wars. Bringing it home is an extraordinary opportunity, and with your help, we can restore this lost treasure for future generations to appreciate."
Learn more and donate today at https://www.urhs.org/mercitrain
For corporate sponsorships, visit https://www.urhs.org/mercitrainsponsorship
To learn more about the story of the "train de la reconnaissance Française" aka the "Merci Train", please read of November 2022 Bulletin:
November 2022: The Merci Train, 49 boxcars of French gifts
https://conta.cc/3OLtgJ3 (original version in English)
https://conta.cc/3VpKzRP (version en français)
| | Our Bulletins are in good hands! | | |
Above: Tyler Martelly-Masdoumier, a senior, Four year cadet at Valley Forge Military Academy & College, athlete, color guard, Rifle club, cadet officer, and he enlisted in the Army reserve last year (11B infantry).
Tyler completed boot camp last summer. He has been accepted for ROTC in College. Incidentally, his quote in the yearbook is: “Courage isn't having the strength to go on - it is going on when you don't have strength.” ― Napoleon Bonaparte
• We are deeply humbled to learn that our monthly Bulletins are appreciated and shared.
What is more, that they are read by the younger generations, and as importantly, by those who will be defending our children and grandchildren' freedoms.
• We express our sincere gratitude to VFMA History Chair Chris Bechtel for telling us about this young bright student, and our congratulations and best wishes to Tyler, undoubtedly a future leader.
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Addendum
To our March 2025 Bulletin
"French generals of the U.S. Army"
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Our March Bulletin “French Generals of the U.S. Army”, omitted to include three generals, brothers René and Louis de Russy, and René’s son, Gustavus Adolphus. René was French-born, Louis and Gustavus Adolphus were born in the USA. We add them to our list under the heading "of immediate French descent" as we did with Generals Alfred Mouton, P.T. Beauregard, John Charles Frémont, and Raleigh Colston.
René Edouard (Edward) de Russy (February 22, 1789 – November 23, 1865) was born in the French colony of Saint Domingue (today’s Haiti). His father, Thomas De Russy, initially served in the French Navy before being assigned to help the nascent American Navy during the American Revolutionary War.
• In 1791, the De Russy family escaped the turmoil of the slave revolution and moved to Old Point Comfort, Virginia.
• At 18, De Russy joined the United States Military Academy at West Point, graduating in 1812. De Russy served as the assistant engineer for New York State's defenses, contributing to the construction of Fort Montgomery, Rouses Point on the Canada–US border and Fort Hamilton in New York Harbor in 1825. He also built several forts along the gulf of Mexico.
• On July 1, 1833, De Russy took on the role of Superintendent of the United States Military Academy, a position he held for five years. He then oversaw the construction of forts in Virginia and Delaware, before being assigned to San Francisco. There, he continued his work on military fortifications and was appointed to the Pacific Coast Defense Board. He passed away in San Francisco in 1865.
• De Russy is recognized for creating the barbette depressing gun carriage.
• In honor of his contributions, President Andrew Johnson posthumously nominated him for the rank of brevet Brigadier general in the Regular US Army on July 17, 1866, with the rank effective from March 13, 1865. The United States Senate confirmed this appointment on July 26, 1866.
Legacy
In the United States, there are five Forts DeRussy: the Fort DeRussy Military Reservation in Honolulu, two located in Louisiana, one in Kentucky, and one in Washington, D.C. The latter four were constructed during the American Civil War. These forts were named after two brothers, René Edward and his younger sibling Louis Gustave De Russy. In their later years, they fought for opposing sides in the Civil War, with René serving the Union and Louis as a Major-General in the Confederate Army; Louis was the oldest West Point graduate to fight for the Confederacy.
Louis (Lewis) De Russy (René's younger brother) was born on September 17, 1795 and raised in New York City.
• At 18 years old, De Russy completed his training as a cadet and graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York in 1814, after eleven months. His graduation may have been hastened by the ongoing War of 1812.
• From 1819 to 1821, he participated in a surveying team that established the US-Canadian border, which led to consistent engineering roles and career advancement. In September 1826, he was promoted to major and assigned to the Red River outposts in central Louisiana, where he and his wife resided between Fort Jesup and Natchitoches.
• Most of his career and life were then spent in Louisiana. After serving as a major in the state militia, he joined the 1st Louisiana Regiment of Volunteers in December 1846, where he was elected colonel and led the regiment during the Mexican War. In July 1847, they participated in the Battle of Tantayuka.
• Upon returning to Louisiana, he became a Major general in the State militia. In 1851, he was elected to the state house and, after completing a two-year term, moved on to the State senate. He also contributed to several significant engineering projects and conducted a survey of the Red River.
• During the American Civil War, he served as Chief Engineer for the Confederacy, focusing on projects around the Red River. He passed away at his home at Grand Ecore, LA on December 17, 1864.
Legacy and honors
Fort DeRussy, built during the Civil War near Marksville, Louisiana, was named in his honor.
Gustavus Adolphus De Russy (November 3, 1818 – May 29, 1891). followed in the footsteps of his father René and uncle Louis, entered West Point in 1835. However, he had to resign in 1838 due to issues with alcohol. In 1847, he became a second lieutenant in the US Army and participated in the Mexican-American War. He earned a brevet promotion to 1st Lieutenant for his bravery and commendable service during the Battles of Contreras and Churubusco, and later received a brevet to captain for his courageous and distinguished service at Chapultepec.
• At the onset of the Civil War, De Russy was part of the 4th US Artillery. He led the artillery reserve for III Corps during the Peninsula Campaign and the Seven Days Battles, earning promotions to major and lieutenant colonel.
• In March 1863, he was elevated to colonel and then to Brigadier general of volunteers in May of that year. He oversaw the southern defenses of Washington, D.C. until the war concluded. After the war, De Russy returned to the rank of major due to the downsizing of the forces. He remained in the army, earning promotions to lieutenant colonel in 1879 and colonel in 1882, before retiring that same year.
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Progress card on our restoration of the
Lapérouse Monument
Lapérouse Bay, Maui, Hawaii
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Above: La Pérouse Memorial, Maui, Hawaii, before and after (close up)
Off Makena Road, Kihei, HI 96753 GPS: 20.600745, -156.419877
• After obtaining all the necessary Permits from State, County and local authorities, as well as the benevolent consent of the owner of the private land on which this monument sits, we were finally able to hire a local contractor to do the consolidation of this monument, which was crumbling. With the passage of time, natural erosion, and some tourist degradations (as some "adventurers" were climbing to the top of this pyramid-shaped monument, some lava rocks became detached), and the base was also in dire need of consolidation). The bronze plaque was also in a poor state and is being refinished to its original condition.
• The memorial is located at the entrance of a popular touristic site on a lava field, a few steps from the ocean. We will install an NPS-style interpretative marker nearby the adjacent parking lot, which will tell (and illustrate) the story of this extraordinary navigator, explorer and humanist, the first European to actually set foot on the island of "Mowee", and an illustrious French Navy officer who participated in the American Revolutionary War.
• Stay tuned for future announcements regarding the re-dedication ceremony!
• You can read his adventures in Hawaii, Alaska and California in our April 2024 Bulletin:
April 2024: La Pérouse in America
https://conta.cc/3U58W8r (original version in English)
https://conta.cc/3xHEvxn (version en français)
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2025: Tricentennial of Rochambeau
Born July 1st, 1725
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Just as we are in the midst of celebrating the 200th anniversary of General Lafayette's Farewell Tour, it is also high time that we pay proper tributes to Jean-Baptiste-Donatien de Vimeur, comte de Rochambeau, who played a major and decisive role in the war of American Independence.
July 1st, 2025 will be the 300th anniversary of his birth, and our Society will continue, more than ever, to celebrate this great general, commander of the Expédition Particulière sent by King Louis XVI to come to the rescue of a beleaguered Continental Army. An excellent general, beloved by his troops, a keen diplomat who developed a close friendship with General George Washington, Rochambeau (along with Admiral de Grasse) deserve much more attention in history books.
Stay tuned, as we will announce in future Bulletins specific events commemorating this illustrious Frenchman, from Newport, R.I. to Yorktown, VA.
We are pleased to announce below the increasingly popular Tribute weekend to Rochambeau and encampment of the French Army in Yorktown, NY spearheaded by Lynn Briggs, Chairman, Yorktown Heritage Preservation Commission / Yorktown 250 and Chair, New York State Washington Rochambeau Revolutionary Route Organization
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The Odell House - Rochambeau Headquarters which is entering the last phase of its transformation into a museum is busy making preparations for the installation of our Society's memorial to the four soldiers of the Régiment Royal-Deux-Ponts. We will share updates soon in our future Bulletins.
News from OHRH
Odell House - Rochambeau Headquarters
Future Museum
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The funding for their exhibits is not included in the restoration budget, so their need to raise funds to create a compelling, interactive museum within the house. The more money raised, the more exciting and informative the exhibits will be.
Please give what you can—and let them know if you have connections to organizations or individuals who could make major donations. Thank you for your support!
Click HERE to donate
Video and photos of Susan Seal and future museum, courtesy Friends of Odell House-Rochambeau Headquarters. Preliminary sketch TC © ASSFI 2021 - Final memorial may be different.
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The Hermione, "the Freedom Frigate",
still in needs of funds to sail again to America
| | Click above to view a recent news report on French TV. Funds are urgently needed to finish the repairs and enable this other symbol of the shared history between the United States and France to sail again in New York harbor, and salute Lady Liberty. | | |
Announcing our
Projected sculpture of
Antoine de Saint Exupéry & The Little Prince
Phillip & Patricia Frost Museum of Science
Downtown Miami, Florida
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Dear Friends of The Little Prince,
Generations of children -- and with them generations of adults -- have fallen under the spell of Antoine de Saint Exupéry’s The Little Prince since its 1943 publication. Appearing in over 600 languages to date, it is the most translated book of fiction in the world. Dozens of plaques and statues commemorate the Little Prince who touches down from his lonely planet to offer a bouquet of wisdoms to this one.
As an international city, very much a crossroads of the Americas, Miami surely deserves a monument to the Little Prince, that most endearing of cultural ambassadors.
The American Society of Le Souvenir Français, Inc., and the France-Florida Foundation for the Arts, both non-profit 501 (c) 3 organizations, are proposing a bronze sculpture of Saint Exupéry and his most beloved creation for the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science. The statue would be installed on the esplanade near the museum entrance, in the heart of downtown Miami.
The life-size bronze sculpture designed by renowned artist Jean-Marc de Pas will depict the aviation pioneer, WWII hero, poet, and novelist Antoine de Saint Exupéry in his flight suit, holding the hand of his “petit bonhomme”. Another de Pas sculpture currently sits along a wall opposite Central Park on Fifth Avenue in New York City. It has been an overnight success with the public, who have lined up daily for photos since its 2023 inauguration. We expect the same in Miami, especially at a museum and planetarium frequented by so many families and young children.
This project, a gift to one of Miami’s most vibrant cultural institutions, has received the official endorsement of H.E. Mr. Laurent Bili, Ambassador of France to the United States and Mr. Olivier d'Agay, President of the Antoine de Saint Exupéry Youth Foundation and grand-nephew of the author of The Little Prince. On behalf of our Honorary Committee, we are soliciting your tax-deductible assistance in underwriting the sculptures, along with their transportation and installation. Our goal is to raise $200,000 and to conduct a dedication ceremony in 2026, in the presence of state, county and city officials and dignitaries from both countries.
Any donation of $100 or more will be duly recognized. Names of donors above $1,000 will be engraved on a plaque to be installed inside the Museum, according to the following levels:
Bronze $1,000-$5,000 // Silver $5,000-$10,000 // Gold $10,000-$20,000 Platinum: $20,000 or more.
Our goal is to permanently secure some of the novel’s magic for future generations of Miamians and for millions of Florida tourists from all over the world.
Thank you for your generous response.
Please send your donation (specify: Petit Prince)
by ACH wire to:
The American Society of Le Souvenir Français Inc.
TD BANK - 1031 1st Avenue, New York, NY 10022
Routing # 026013673 - Account# 4326011741
Or by check, made payable to:
The American Society of Le Souvenir Français Inc.
500 East 77th Street #2017, New York, NY 10162
or via PayPal:
https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=WP5E5SCTBTFMN
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OUR PAST MONTHLY BULLETINS
OUR AIM: To turn the spotlight on a famous, or less famous, episode or historical figure during the long shared history between France and the United States, with illustrations and anecdotes.
You can have access to our past monthly Bulletins
(in English and French) at: www.SouvenirFrancaisUSA.org
Click on each photo for further access to sources and references.
Images available on the Internet and included in accordance with Title 17 U.S.C. Section 107.
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Discover more than 2,000 sites of French presence in today's United States, spanning 5 centuries, and in all 50 States!
This e-book is a unique compilation of statues, monuments, memorials, markers, plaques, tablets, in all 50 States, from 1524 to the turn of the 20th century, as well as a gallery of portraits of famous and less famous Frenchmen who contributed to the exploration and the development of the United States - - many of whom will surprise you.
This comprehensive reference work, grounded entirely in factual information and accompanied by photographs, details 2,230 distinct locations (the first edition in 2022 consisted of "only" 950 sites).
Each site is provided with a precise address, GPS coordinates, a succinct contextual description, and links to further resources.
It stands as the sole publication of its nature.
It is a tribute to French explorers, missionaries, soldiers, adventurers, pioneers, illustrious or unknown, who left their mark in the United States and are recognized, whose memory is honored.
"Kindle" e-book versions can be easily read on any smart phones, tablets and desktops. Simply download the free app, and the e-book is transferred instantly after purchase. Click on cover photo above to learn more.
The French version "Mémoires de France" (20 euros) is available both at Amazon.com for US residents and at Amazon.fr for residents in France.
Buy yours today! Or offer it as a gift!
Price is $19.50 per copy.
Royalties support the activities of the American Society of Le Souvenir Français, Inc.
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Book Cover :
"Scenes from the American Revolution: The French "Soissonnais" Regiment Being Reviewed at Philadelphia by President Washington and Congress, 1781" By Charles MacKubin Lefferts (American, 1873 – 1923) ca. 1916. Watercolor, gouache, black ink, and graphite on board.
New York Historical Society Museum, Gift of the Estate of Charles M. Lefferts 1923.120 - Reproduced with permission of the New York Historical Society Museum.
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OUR MISSIONS:
• To preserve the memory of the French soldiers, sailors and airmen who gave their lives for freedom, and who are buried in the United States.
• To honor French Citizens who did great deeds in the United States, or with a strong connection with the United States,
• To promote the appreciation for French culture and heritage in the United States, and the ideals that unite our two nations, in order to pass the torch of memory to younger generations.
• To strengthen the long-standing traditional bonds of friendship between the American and French peoples, and to this end: erect or maintain memorials and monuments and encourage historical research, public presentations and publications in the media.
The American Society of Le Souvenir Français, Inc. is an independent American corporation, apolitical, established in 1993 in NY, with 501 (c) 3 non-profit status.
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Board of Directors
2025 - 2028
Elected at our General Assembly of April 10, 2025
(New Directors in italics)
Directors: Françoise Cestac • Gabriel Chalom • Thierry Chaunu • Yves de Ternay • Patrick du Tertre • Francis Dubois • Alain Dupuis • Daniel Falgerho • Bertrand Jost • Dr. Patti Maclay, MD • Domitille Marchal-Lemoine • Mathias Maisonnier • Clément Mbom • Jean-Hugues Monier • Patrick Pagni • Harriet Saxon • Nicole Yancey
Regional Delegates:
Jacques Besnainou, Great Lakes and Midwest • Bruno Cateni, South
Prof. Norman Desmarais, New England • Alain Leca, Washington D.C. •
Marc Onetto, West Coast • Brigitte Van den Hove – Smith, Southeast • Nicole Yancey, Yorktown & Virginia, former Honorary Consul of France in Virginia
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Join us!
Help us implement several historic commemorative projects!
Your contribution is essential to our activities!
- $ 25 for Veterans and Students
- $ 50 for a membership ($80 for a couple)
- $100 for a Supporting Level membership
- $100 for an civic or patriotic association (US only)
- $150 for a Benefactor Level membership
- We are an IRS-qualified 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Donations are tax deductible.
You can send your donation via PayPal by clicking on:
https://souvenirfrancaisusa.org/donate/
(100% secure - no need to have an account with PayPal - major credit cards accepted)
or
By check, payable to "American Society of Le Souvenir Français, Inc"
Mailing address:
Yves de Ternay, Treasurer
5650 Netherland Avenue #4G Bronx NY 10471
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The American Society of Le Souvenir Français, Inc. is a registered NY State non-profit corporation and has full IRS tax exempt 501(c)3 status. All donations are tax deductible.
Copyright © 2025 The American Society of Le Souvenir Français, Inc.
All Rights Reserved
Merci de nous contacter si vous souhaitez recevoir ce bulletin dans sa version traduite en français.
Contact: Thierry Chaunu, President
Email: tchaunu@SouvenirFrancaisUSA.org
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