Imagine Pierre-Théodore Verhaegen standing before you. He gazes firmly ahead. The Pierre-Théodore Verhaegen Statue stands as a tribute to a remarkable man.
The Pierre-Théodore Verhaegen Statue is in Brussels. It is located on Avenue Franklin Roosevelt 50. The statue stands before the rectorate of the Université Libre de Bruxelles.
Who was Pierre-Théodore Verhaegen? He was the founder of the Université Libre de Bruxelles. He placed it under the sign of free thought in 1834. Verhaegen’s political and academic path showed his desire for progress.
Guillaume Geefs created the statue in 1865. The Compagnie des Bronzes de Bruxelles cast it. The contract was made July 2, 1864.
Verhaegen wears a jacket in the statue. He holds a parchment in his hand. The parchment reads: “The teaching of science by science and for science.”
The statue’s base features inscriptions. One inscription reads “Pierre Théodore Verhaegen, founder of the Université Libre de Bruxelles.” It also notes his birth and death dates. Another inscription shows his donation to Brussels. He gave 100,000 francs to support higher education.
The base also shows the artist and foundry. It reads “G-me Geefs 1865 Cie Anonyme des Bronzes Bruxelles.” The statue first stood on Rue des Sols. It moved to Solbosch in 1928 with the ULB. The Pierre-Théodore Verhaegen Statue was restored in 2011.
Verhaegen was born in Brussels on September 5, 1796. He died there on December 8, 1862. Besides founding the university, he was also a politician. He served as mayor of Watermael-Boitsfort. He was also a member of the provincial council of Brabant. He helped form the Liberal Party.
Verhaegen was a grand master in the Grand Orient of Belgium. He remained a Catholic throughout his life. Yet he chose a civil funeral.
The Saint-Verhaegen celebrates the ULB’s foundation every November 20. It mixes commemorations and student revelry. The Saint-Verhaegen is part of Brussels’ cultural heritage.
The Pierre-Théodore Verhaegen Statue remains a symbol. It stands for free thought. It honors a man of progress and commitment. Take a moment to appreciate the statue. Remember the legacy of Pierre-Théodore Verhaegen.