Statue of Wendell Phillips

The Wendell Phillips statue is an 8-foot bronze figure positioned along the Boylston Street path, with a broken chain in the left hand and a raised right fist. The figure stands upon a 12-foot pink granite base, creating a commanding presence within the garden landscape.

Created by sculptor Daniel Chester French, the monument was dedicated on July 4, 1915 to honor the Boston-born abolitionist. This date marked a formal recognition of his decades of work fighting against slavery and advocating for social change.

The inscription features Phillips' words on freedom and victory, reflecting his role as a prominent voice against slavery. Visitors passing by can pause to read his message and understand what drove his lifelong activism.

The statue sits within Boston Public Garden near the intersection of Boylston and Arlington Streets, making it accessible during a walk through the park. Since it stands outdoors year-round with no entrance barriers, you can view it at any time while exploring the surrounding grounds.

The statue was dedicated on Independence Day, which reinforces its symbolic connection to American ideals of freedom and equality. This meaningful date choice transformed the unveiling into a powerful statement about national values.