Equestrian statue of George Meade

This equestrian monument depicts General George Meade astride his horse Old Baldy in bronze, set upon a granite base. The sculpture stands roughly 23 feet tall and captures the general in full military dress with careful attention to period accuracy.

Sculptor Alexander Milne Calder created this work in 1887 to honor the Union commander who led forces during the battle at Gettysburg. The bronze material was cast from captured Confederate cannons, adding symbolic weight to the memorial.

Philadelphia women raised funds to create this memorial after General Meade's passing, reflecting the community's desire to honor his military service. The work shows how citizens chose to preserve his memory in their public spaces.

The monument is located where George's Hill Drive meets Lansdowne Drive in West Fairmount Park, making it easy to spot from park pathways. Visitors can access it on foot from nearby attractions like the Please Touch Museum.

The pedestal features inscriptions that record foundry details and production information about how the memorial was made. These markings serve as a record of the craftsmanship and metallurgical process behind the work.

GPS coordinates: 39.98099,-75.20805

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:21