Sculpted in stone, a beacon of hope overlooks the Pacific. This is the Santa Monica Statue in Palisades Park. She stands tall, a tribute to Saint Monica, the mother of Saint Augustine. The Santa Monica Statue isn’t just a statue. It’s a piece of history, unveiled in 1934. It was a gift from the Federal Government, part of the Public Works of Art project during the New Deal era. The sculptor, Eugene Morahan, crafted her with the hope that she would inspire mothers everywhere. The dedication ceremony was a grand affair, with music, dignitaries, and a prayer for the statue to become a symbol of strength.
The Santa Monica Statue is an impressive 18 feet high, including its 5-foot base. It’s made of concrete and stands near the cliff edge, framed by palm trees and the vast ocean. The creation of the Santa Monica Statue was a community effort. Funds for the materials were donated by various organizations and individuals, including the Masonic Club, local businesses, and even schoolchildren. This demonstrates the community’s deep appreciation for the arts and the symbolic importance of Saint Monica.
The story goes that Morahan, under pressure to complete the Santa Monica Statue for Pioneer Day, enlisted the help of a fellow sculptor. This sculptor was none other than Gutzon Borglum, the artist behind Mount Rushmore. Borglum reportedly left his work on the presidential monument to assist Morahan in finishing the Santa Monica Statue in time for the unveiling. The Santa Monica Statue stands as a testament to the collaborative spirit of artists and the community’s dedication to honoring Saint Monica. Today, visitors to Palisades Park can admire this Art Deco masterpiece. The Santa Monica Statue offers a quiet place for reflection, with stunning ocean views. Some visitors even leave flowers at her feet, a touching tribute to the enduring symbol of motherhood and hope she represents.