Strengthen the Arm of Liberty Monument (Overland Park, Kansas) facts for kids

A copy of the Statue of Liberty at Shawnee Mission North High School.

The Strengthen the Arm of Liberty Monument in Overland Park, Kansas, is a smaller copy of the famous Statue of Liberty. It was put there by the Boy Scouts of America in the 1950s. This was part of their special project called "Strengthen the Arm of Liberty." You can find this monument on the west side of Shawnee Mission North High School.

What is the "Strengthen the Arm of Liberty" Monument?

This monument is a special statue that looks just like the much larger Statue of Liberty in New York City. It stands tall in Overland Park, Kansas, reminding everyone about freedom. It's not just a decoration; it has an important story behind it.

A Little Sister to Lady Liberty

The original Statue of Liberty is a huge symbol of freedom for the United States. It was a gift from France and stands in New York Harbor. The monument in Kansas is a smaller version, like a little sister to the big one. It shares the same message of liberty and hope.

The Boy Scouts' Big Idea

In the 1950s, the Boy Scouts of America started a special project. They called it the "Strengthen the Arm of Liberty" campaign. Their goal was to place copies of the Statue of Liberty in many places across the country. They wanted to remind people about the importance of freedom and loyalty. These statues were a way to show their pride in the United States.

What the Plaque Says

The sign on the base of the statue.

At the bottom of the monument, there is a special sign, called a plaque. This plaque explains why the statue was placed there. It talks about the faith and courage of the people who helped create the United States. It also says that the Boy Scouts dedicated this statue. They did this as a promise of their lasting loyalty to the country. The plaque also mentions that this was part of their 40th Anniversary Crusade in 1950.