At the Arlington Street entrance to Boston’s Public Garden, this bronze equestrian statue depicts George Washington in military uniform on horseback. Sculptor Thomas Ball made the monument, which was unveiled in 1869. Its elevated position and formal pose give the garden a clear historical focal point, set among flowerbeds, trees and winding paths. Pause to look at the sculpture from several angles, then continue through the garden. The grounds are wheelchair accessible at the entrance and parking lot.
A monument at the garden entrance
The George Washington Statue stands by the Arlington Street entrance to the Public Garden in Boston. Thomas Ball created the bronze equestrian monument, which was dedicated in 1869. Washington appears in military uniform, seated on horseback and looking ahead. The statue’s prominent position makes it a natural point of focus as you enter or leave the garden.
The bronze sculpture measures about 22 by 6 by 15 feet and rests on a granite base measuring about 16 by 8 by 15 feet. From the surrounding paths, you can take in the horse and rider against the garden’s trees, flowerbeds and open spaces. Walking around the monument gives you different views of the sculpture and its setting.
The making of the statue
The project began with a commission in 1859. Ball modeled the sculpture in 1864, and it was cast and dedicated in 1869. The effort was intended to present Massachusetts as a center for artistic work, with the artist, modeling and bronze casting connected to Boston and the state. The finished monument became a public tribute to the first president of the United States.
The statue has also had a recurring maintenance challenge: its sword was broken and stolen several times. To avoid repeatedly making a replacement in bronze, caretakers installed a fiberglass substitute. It is a small detail to look for when viewing the monument closely.
A stop within the Public Garden
The statue is part of a larger walk through the Public Garden, where paths pass trees, planted beds and the lagoon. You can make a brief stop for the monument, then continue through the grounds at your own pace. Seasonal flowers change the setting around it, and the paths provide several ways to frame a photograph.
The garden is in the middle of the city, but its planted areas offer a quieter place to pause. Signs ask visitors not to feed the wildlife, including the ducks. The Public Garden’s entrance and parking lot are wheelchair accessible.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is the George Washington Statue in Boston?
It is in the Public Garden, beside the Arlington Street entrance.
Who made the George Washington Statue?
Sculptor Thomas Ball created the bronze equestrian monument.
When was the statue unveiled?
It was dedicated in 1869.
Is the Public Garden wheelchair accessible?
The listed entrance and parking lot are wheelchair accessible.
