NYC Union Square Monuments Preserved, 6/29

On Tuesday, June 29, 2010 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at The Independence Flagstaff and sculptures of Abraham Lincoln and George Washington (Union Square Park, 14th to 17th Street, Broadway, Manhattan), in honor of Independence Day, the Citywide Monuments Conservation Program (CMCP) will preserve the Independence Flagstaff, the Abraham Lincoln sculpture, and the George Washington monument. The sculptures will be fully cleaned and protective finishes will be renewed.

Located in the bustling heart of Union Square Park, the Independence Flagstaff was dedicated on July 4, 1930 and commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Sculpted by Anthony de Francesi, the monument features a massive base encircled by bronze reliefs depicting a contrast between tyranny and democracy. This weekend marks its 80th anniversary. Also celebrating a milestone is New York's oldest monument, the equestrian George Washington monument. Dedicated on July 4, 1856, the Washington monument by Henry Kirke Brown stands in the center of the south plaza. At the park's north end, Abraham Lincoln aligns with the other two monuments on the central axis. In honor of these upcoming anniversaries, the Citywide Monuments Conservation Program (CMCP) will perform maintenance and preservation of these monuments.

The Abraham Lincoln sculpture (1870) in the north plaza will also be cleaned. Both the Lincoln and the Washington sculptures were designed by the famous American sculptor Henry Kirke Brown.

The Citywide Monuments Conservation Program is preserving and restoring these and other park monuments throughout the summer. The program field team consists of two professional conservators and four advanced students of preservation, and relies on private support. Major program donors this summer are Samuel H. Kress Foundation and Donna Karan.