Why is this statue, the James A. Garfield Monument, positioned so low to the ground? It seems unassuming for a tribute to a president. While many presidential memorials boast towering heights, this one invites you closer. This bronze bust, resting atop a seventeen-foot granite base, sits in the heart of Fairmount Park, a testament to the 20th president. Unveiled on May 30, 1896, the James A. Garfield Monument was more than a dedication, it was a community effort. Funds were raised by the people of Philadelphia, spearheaded by the Fairmount Park Art Association. They chose Augustus Saint-Gaudens, a renowned sculptor known for his unique vision. Saint-Gaudens, along with architect Stanford White, decided on a more intimate setting for the monument. They wanted people to experience Garfield’s legacy, not just observe it from afar. The monument’s dedication was a grand affair, a river fete gracing the Schuylkill River with parades and flotillas. But beyond the grandeur, the James A. Garfield Monument stands as a symbol of a president remembered not just for his presidency, cut short after 199 days, but for the impact he had on the people he served.
Building 662
“Building 662, a sturdy brick structure, stands before you.” “It’s not a grand masterpiece, but a testament to practicality,” “Built