Statue of Charles Sumner

The Statue of Charles Sumner is an over-life-size bronze sculpture in Boston's Public Garden, showing the senator holding papers in his left hand while gesturing with his right. The work stands as one of several monuments throughout the park dedicated to notable historical figures.

Sculptor Thomas Ball created this memorial following Charles Sumner's death in 1874, with the work being dedicated in 1878. The Boston Art Committee selected Ball to honor the influential senator through this bronze commission.

The statue reflects the complex story of 19th-century art competitions, as the original winning design by Anne Whitney was rejected when her gender was discovered.

The monument is located within Boston's Public Garden and is easy to reach on foot as part of a walking tour through the park. It remains accessible year-round since the garden is open to visitors at all times.

Artist Anne Whitney initially designed the memorial and won a competition, but her design was rejected when her gender was revealed. This led to sculptor Thomas Ball being commissioned instead, reflecting the biases that shaped 19th-century art institutions.

Location: Boston

GPS coordinates: 42.35242,-71.06983

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:27