McMillan Fountain

McMillan Fountain is a bronze sculpture featuring three female figures standing on an octagonal pink granite basin. The composition was designed by sculptor Herbert Adams and sits near the McMillan Reservoir.

Herbert Adams created the fountain in 1912, but its dedication happened in 1919 after funding came from Michigan citizens and Congress. The delay between completion and dedication was common for major public monuments of that era.

The three female figures on the fountain represent virtues that connected to Senator McMillan's legacy for the community. These carved figures reflected what people valued about his contributions to the city.

The fountain sits near McMillan Reservoir and is easy to reach on foot. The best time to visit is during daylight when you can see the details of the bronze figures and granite basin clearly.

Michigan schoolchildren donated small coins to raise 25,000 dollars for construction, showing broad public support for the project. This unusual fundraising method made the fountain a symbol of community participation.

Location: Washington, D.C.

Inception: 1912

Creator: Herbert Adams

GPS coordinates: 38.92330,-77.01274

Latest update: December 14, 2025 09:41