Sir William Blackstone, Bronze sculpture at E. Barrett Prettyman United States Courthouse, Washington D.C., United States
Sir William Blackstone is a bronze sculpture standing at the intersection of 3rd Street and Pennsylvania Avenue in front of the E. Barrett Prettyman United States Courthouse. The figure depicts the British legal scholar dressed in judicial robes and a formal wig, rising approximately 2.7 meters tall.
The sculpture was created in 1926 by American sculptor Paul Wayland Bartlett. Originally intended for placement at London's Middle Temple, the work was relocated to Washington D.C. in 1943 after World War II.
The statue represents the enduring connection between American and British legal traditions. Blackstone's writings remain foundational to how both nations understand and practice law.
The sculpture stands outside the courthouse and is freely accessible to pedestrians walking past. The location sits near major streets in a busy downtown area, so plan your visit around typical weekday foot traffic patterns.
The American Bar Association members raised funds to bring this statue to completion. Its journey from intended placement in London to final installation in the nation's capital reflects how deeply Blackstone's influence shaped American legal thinking.
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