Did you know that this lifelike stone figure is the only statue dedicated to a politician erected in Bonn after World War II? This is the John F. Kennedy statue. It stands as a lasting tribute to the former US President.
The Kennedy-Statue is located at the corner of Godesberger Allee 90 and Kennedyallee. It stands in front of a nine-story office building. The Hochkreuz/Deutsches Museum Bonn city train stop is nearby.
Let’s delve into the story behind this monument. John F. Kennedy visited Bonn for three days in June 1963. He was invited by Chancellor Konrad Adenauer. Kennedy was greatly admired in Germany. He represented a new generation of politicians. He symbolized a fresh start. The people of Bonn enthusiastically welcomed Kennedy. Mayor Wilhelm Daniels greeted the President at the town hall. Kennedy signed the city’s Golden Book. From the town hall steps, he addressed the crowd. He famously declared, “The city of Bonn is the capital of the free world.” About 25,000 Bonn citizens gathered on Münsterplatz to hear him. After his visit to Bonn, Kennedy traveled to West Berlin. There, he delivered his iconic “Ich bin ein Berliner” speech.
The city of Bonn showed its admiration for John F. Kennedy in several ways. In 1963, Kennedy-Allee was named in his honor. Also, the Rhine bridge connecting Bonn-Zentrum and Beuel was renamed after him in 1963.
The Kennedy-Statue itself was created in 1989. Cologne sculptors Herm-Jörg Barner and Marlene Dammin crafted it. Architects Dirk Denninger and Dorothee Fiedler-Denninger commissioned the statue. It was erected on November 15, 1989.
The statue is 2.20 meters tall. It stands on a 50 cm high base made of Weiberner Tuff. The US President is realistically depicted. He wears a suit, shirt, tie, and shoes. His arms are crossed in front of his body. His gaze is directed west. He looks over the intersection towards Venusberg.
Imagine the dedication ceremony. Picture the unveiling. Feel the collective respect for a leader who inspired hope. The Kennedy-Statue is more than just a sculpture. It is a symbol of Bonn’s connection to a pivotal moment in history. It represents the enduring legacy of John F. Kennedy. Take a moment to appreciate this tribute. Remember the ideals Kennedy stood for. Consider the impact he had on both Germany and the world.