Washington Monument

The Washington Monument at West Point is a bronze equestrian statue depicting George Washington mounted on his horse in military attire. The sculpture stands prominently on the academy grounds near Trophy Point, where it serves as a focal point for visitors exploring the campus.

Sculptor Henry Kirke Brown created this bronze statue in 1854 as the first equestrian monument cast in America using American bronze. The creation became a significant moment in how the nation chose to honor its founding military leader.

The statue shows Washington in his Continental Army uniform as a commanding military leader during the founding of the nation. Visitors today see how the monument preserves the memory of his role in American independence and military history.

The monument is located near Trophy Point on the academy grounds and can be accessed during regular campus hours through the Visitor Center entrance. A valid photo identification is required for all visitors entering the grounds.

The horse is depicted with one hoof raised, following an ancient artistic tradition that signals Washington died of natural causes rather than in battle. This subtle detail often goes unnoticed by visitors but reveals the sculptor's attention to historical convention.