Admiral David G Farragut

Washington, D.C., US

Admiral David G Farragut
Admiral David G Farragut
Location
Washington, D.C., US
Category
heritage historic sites
Coordinates
38.901946, -77.038972
Best time
Morning or early afternoon
Weather tip
Check the local forecast before visiting.

Overview

The Admiral David G. Farragut Memorial, located in the heart of Farragut Square in Washington, D.C., stands as a significant monument to one of the most prominent naval commanders in American history. Dedicated in 1881, this bronze statue commemorates David G. Farragut, who served as the first Admiral of the United States Navy and gained national fame for his decisive victories during the American Civil War, most notably at the Battle of Mobile Bay. Visitors to this historic site can observe the intricate craftsmanship of the statue, which was sculpted by Vinnie Ream, the first woman to receive a commission from the U.S. government for a statue. The monument serves as a central point for those exploring the capital's rich military heritage. As you plan your trip ideas in the city, the square provides a peaceful urban retreat surrounded by the bustling activity of downtown D.C. It is an excellent stop for history enthusiasts looking to understand the naval legacy of the United States while enjoying a stroll through one of the city's most iconic parks. Whether you are interested in historical landmarks or simply seeking local attractions to enhance your visit, the Farragut Memorial offers a concise yet impactful look into 19th-century American leadership. The surrounding area also features abundant amenities, making it a convenient location for those mapping out their daily itinerary in the nation's capital.

General information

The Admiral David G. Farragut Memorial, located in the heart of Farragut Square in Washington, D.C., stands as a significant monument to one of the most prominent naval commanders in American history. Dedicated in 1881, this bronze statue commemorates David G. Farragut, who served as the first Admiral of the United States Navy and gained national fame for his decisive victories during the American Civil War, most notably at the Battle of Mobile Bay. Visitors to this historic site can observe the intricate craftsmanship of the statue, which was sculpted by Vinnie Ream, the first woman to receive a commission from the U.S. government for a statue. The monument serves as a central point for those exploring the capital's rich military heritage. As you plan your trip ideas in the city, the square provides a peaceful urban retreat surrounded by the bustling activity of downtown D.C. It is an excellent stop for history enthusiasts looking to understand the naval legacy of the United States while enjoying a stroll through one of the city's most iconic parks. Whether you are interested in historical landmarks or simply seeking local attractions to enhance your visit, the Farragut Memorial offers a concise yet impactful look into 19th-century American leadership. The surrounding area also features abundant amenities, making it a convenient location for those mapping out their daily itinerary in the nation's capital.

Did you know

  • The bronze used to cast the statue was salvaged from the propeller of the USS Hartford, which was Admiral Farragut's flagship during the Civil War.
  • Vinnie Ream, the sculptor, was only 33 years old when the statue was unveiled in 1881.
  • Farragut Square is one of the few parks in Washington, D.C. that retains its original name from the 1872 city planning maps.

History

The Admiral David G. Farragut Memorial was commissioned by the U.S. Congress following the Admiral's death in 1870. The project was awarded to Vinnie Ream, a young and talented sculptor who had previously gained acclaim for her statue of Abraham Lincoln. The memorial was formally unveiled on April 25, 1881, in a ceremony attended by President James A. Garfield. The statue depicts Farragut in his naval uniform, standing on the deck of a ship, a design intended to reflect his active command during the naval engagements of the Civil War. It remains a testament to the post-war efforts to memorialize military figures through public art in the capital city.

Cultural significance

The memorial holds cultural importance as a landmark of 19th-century American public art and as a symbol of the U.S. Navy's evolution. By commissioning Vinnie Ream, the federal government made a progressive statement in the art world of the 1870s, establishing the monument as a milestone for women artists in the United States. Furthermore, the statue reinforces the cultural memory of the Civil War era, serving as a focal point for remembrance and historical education. It continues to be a site where the public engages with the naval history of the nation, bridging the gap between past military service and contemporary urban life in Washington, D.C.

Geography and landscape

The monument is situated at the center of Farragut Square, a prominent urban park located in the Northwest quadrant of Washington, D.C. The square is bounded by K Street, I Street, 17th Street, and 16th Street. The landscape is characterized by a formal park layout with mature trees, manicured lawns, and paved walkways that accommodate significant pedestrian traffic from the surrounding business district. The statue itself is mounted on a granite pedestal, positioned centrally within the park to serve as a visual anchor. The surrounding urban environment is densely developed, featuring high-rise office buildings and easy access to the nearby Farragut North and Farragut West Metro stations.

More facts

  • Imported from OSM batch

Nearby attractions