Mary McLeod Bethune Memorial facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mary McLeod Bethune Memorial |
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| Artist | Robert Berks |
| Type | Bronze |
| Location | Washington, D.C. |
| 38°53′23″N 76°59′20″W / 38.889722°N 76.988889°W | |
| Owner | National Park Service |
The Mary McLeod Bethune Memorial is a special bronze statue in Washington, D.C. It honors Mary McLeod Bethune, a very important educator and activist. This statue was created by artist Robert Berks. It's a big deal because it was the first statue placed on public land in Washington, D.C., to honor both an African American person and a woman.
The statue shows an older Mrs. Bethune. She is handing a copy of her important ideas to two young Black children. Mrs. Bethune leans on a cane that was given to her by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
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Unveiling the Memorial
The statue was officially revealed on July 10, 1974. This date was also the 99th anniversary of Mrs. Bethune's birthday. More than 18,000 people came to see the unveiling. The money for this memorial was collected by the National Council of Negro Women. Mrs. Bethune started this organization in 1935.
Where to Find the Statue
You can find the Mary McLeod Bethune Memorial in Lincoln Park. This park is located at East Capitol Street and 12th Street N.E. in Washington, D.C..
Important Words on the Memorial
The memorial has several important messages carved into it.
Front of the Statue
On the front bottom of Mrs. Bethune's dress, you can see:
- (copyright symbol)
- 73
- Berks
On the front of the base, it says:
- MARY McLEOD BETHUNE
- 1875 1955
Below that, in a flowing writing style, it reads:
- Let her works praise her
Bronze Plaque Details
A bronze plaque on the front of the base states:
- ERECTED
- JULY 10, 1974
- BY THE
- NATIONAL COUNCIL OF NEGRO WOMEN, INC.
- DOROTHY I. HEIGHT
- PRESIDENT
Mary McLeod Bethune's Legacy
Around the sides of the base, there is a long and powerful message. These are words from Mary McLeod Bethune herself:
- I LEAVE YOU LOVE. I LEAVE YOU HOPE. I LEAVE YOU THE CHALLENGE OF DEVELOPING CONFIDENCE IN ONE ANOTHER. I LEAVE YOU A THIRST FOR EDUCATION. I LEAVE YOU A RESPECT FOR THE USE OF POWER. I LEAVE YOU FAITH. I LEAVE YOU RACIAL DIGNITY. I LEAVE YOU A DESIRE TO LIVE HARMONIOUSLY WITH YOUR FELLOW MEN. I LEAVE YOU FINALLY, A RESPONSIBILITY TO OUR YOUNG PEOPLE.
- Mary McLeod Bethune (in script)
See also
- List of public art in Washington, D.C., Ward 6
- Statue of Mary McLeod Bethune (Jersey City)
- Statue of Mary McLeod Bethune (U.S. Capitol)
