What if I told you that this very statue before us sparked a nationwide debate? This is the Statue of William H. Seward. It stands as a tribute to a man whose vision shaped the map of the United States.
William H. Seward served as the Secretary of State under President Lincoln. He was the driving force behind the United States’ purchase of Alaska from Russia. Many at the time derided the acquisition as “Seward’s Folly.” They saw Alaska as a frozen wasteland.
But Seward saw potential. He understood Alaska’s strategic importance and its vast natural resources. The bronze Statue of William H. Seward was created by Richard Brooks. It was unveiled in 1909 at the Alaska–Yukon–Pacific Exposition. The exposition celebrated the development of the Pacific Northwest.
Initially, there was disagreement about where the William H. Seward Statue should permanently reside. Some wanted it downtown. Others thought it belonged elsewhere. Eventually, Volunteer Park was chosen. Here, the Statue of William H. Seward has stood since.
The statue itself is a striking depiction of Seward. He stands tall and dignified. The bronze sculpture is almost nine feet high. It weighs around 2,500 pounds. The pedestal beneath the Statue of William H. Seward is made of imported granite. It adds another 10 feet to the monument’s height.
At the unveiling, General W. H. Seward, William Seward’s son, spoke of his father’s vision. He recounted the objections to the Alaska purchase. People thought it was too far, too cold, and too poor. Seward’s son emphasized Alaska’s growing wealth and strategic value.
The New York State Building at the exposition was a replica of Seward’s mansion. This made it a fitting location for the unveiling of the William H. Seward Statue. The event drew a crowd of over 3,000 people. Dignitaries gave speeches. A poem entitled “Hail to Thee, Seward” was read.
Even after the purchase of Alaska, many continued to mock Seward. They called Alaska “Walrussia”. They said it was a land of icebergs and polar bears. But Seward remained confident that history would prove him right. He told Frank Carpenter that the Alaska purchase would be his most enduring legacy.
Today, the Statue of William H. Seward serves as a reminder of Seward’s foresight. Alaska has proven to be a treasure trove of resources. It has strengthened America’s strategic position. So, as you stand before the Statue of William H. Seward, remember the man who saw beyond the ice and snow. Remember the man who doubled the size of the United States. His vision shaped our nation. It continues to inspire us today.