James A. Garfield Monument

The James A. Garfield Monument is a bronze sculpture on the Capitol Grounds featuring a central statue of the president standing above three allegorical figures on a granite pedestal. The memorial sits near the Capitol Reflecting Pool at the intersection of First Street Southwest and Maryland Avenue.

Sculptor John Quincy Adams Ward completed this memorial in 1887 to honor President James A. Garfield, who was assassinated in 1881 after serving just four months in office. The monument was commissioned by the Society of the Army of Cumberland, an organization of veterans who wanted to recognize Garfield's military and political contributions.

The three bronze figures at the base represent different phases of Garfield's life: a student, a soldier, and a statesman. Together, they tell the story of a man who lived many careers.

The monument is easily accessible on public Capitol Grounds and can be visited at any time of day. Its location near the Reflecting Pool makes it a natural stop while exploring the historical sites downtown.

The Society of the Army of Cumberland raised funds through a special fair held inside the Capitol Rotunda to commission this bronze sculpture. This grassroots effort shows how deeply former soldiers valued keeping Garfield's memory alive.

Location: Washington, D.C.

Location: District of Columbia

Inception: 1887

Creator: John Quincy Adams Ward

Website: http://aoc.gov/cc/grounds/art_arch/garfield.cfm

GPS coordinates: 38.88889,-77.01222

Latest update: December 8, 2025 13:42