Behold the Farragut Monument a bronze giant overlooking Madison Square Park. This isn’t just any statue. It’s a testament to Admiral David Glasgow Farragut a true American hero of the Civil War.
Sculpted by the renowned Augustus Saint-Gaudens this magnificent work was unveiled in 1881. It was Saint-Gaudens’ first major public commission. Rumors swirled then some even claiming it was made in Paris. But the truth is the statue was cast in Paris by Adolphe Gruet. It stands tall a commanding presence in naval uniform binoculars in hand sword at his side.
The monument isn’t just the statue itself. Notice the elegant exedra the semicircular bench surrounding the base. Designed by the architect Stanford White this addition invites visitors to sit contemplate the admiral’s legacy. The inscriptions on the exedra are also a treasure trove of information. One side details Farragut’s life his key battles his rise through the ranks to become the first Admiral of the United States. The other side speaks of his character his courage his sagacity a gentle great-souled man. These words were penned by Stanford White’s father Richard Grant White.
The original base wasn’t granite. It was bluestone but it weathered badly. A Works Project Administration project in the 1930s replaced it with the current granite base. The original base now resides at Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park in Cornish New Hampshire.
Interestingly even a bronze bust a study for this grand sculpture exists. You can find it in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
So look closely at the Farragut Monument. Take in its grandeur. It’s not merely a statue. It’s a piece of history. A powerful symbol of American courage and a masterful work of art that has stood the test of time. It’s a piece of New York City’s rich heritage a testament to a great admiral and a talented artist. The monument stands as a reminder of a pivotal moment in American history a symbol of bravery and leadership a tribute to a man who inspired his countrymen to press on even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.