Charles Sumner Sculpture

Behold the Charles Sumner Sculpture. This bronze figure stands tall in Boston’s Public Garden a testament to a remarkable man. Commissioned after Sumner’s death in 1874 the statue’s creation was far from simple. The Boston Art Committee initially chose a design by Anne Whitney. A seated Sumner thoughtful and dignified. However the Committee later rejected it. They deemed it inappropriate for a woman to sculpt a man’s legs. Imagine the outrage. The sculpture we see today was created by Thomas Ball. He was an American artist living in Florence. He had previously crafted many public figures statues in Boston including that of Governor Andrew. Ball’s design shows Sumner standing. He holds papers close to his chest one hand gesturing. It was cast in Paris then shipped back to Boston. The statue’s dedication took place on December 23 1878. A grand event no doubt. This wasn’t the end of Sumner’s sculptural story though. A lesser-known fact involves President Ulysses S Grant. A story claims Grant visited Ball’s studio in Florence in 1878. Upon seeing the Sumner statue he exclaimed That’s the fourth Sumner I’ve seen this morning. The story highlights the widespread recognition of Sumner’s legacy. This imposing bronze figure in the Public Garden remains a powerful symbol of a pivotal figure in American history. A man who fought tirelessly for abolition and equality. Take a moment to appreciate the artistry and the enduring legacy of Charles Sumner.