Boston Common: A Menagerie of Metal Men (and One Hug)
So you're venturing into the glorious Boston Common, a beacon of green amidst the city's brick and bustle. You're surrounded by squirrels the size of dachshunds (don't worry, they're more interested in your snacks than your ankles), frisbee-flinging families, and a gaggle of geese who've clearly mistaken the pond for their personal five-star resort. But amidst the leafy landscape, you spot something grand – a statue! But what statue?
Facing the Facts: A Rundown of Boston Common's Bronzed Bunch
Tip: Reread the opening if you feel lost.
Boston Common boasts a surprising number of statues, each with a story to tell. Here's a whistle-stop tour of some of the most prominent:
Tip: Read the whole thing before forming an opinion.
The Soldiers and Sailors Monument: This towering tribute commemorates Massachusetts' brave souls who fought in the Civil War. Fun Fact: Look closely, and you might spot a cannonball permanently lodged in the granite base – a Civil War souvenir, perhaps? (Though hopefully not a live one!)
The Shaw Memorial: This powerful sculpture depicts Colonel Robert Gould Shaw leading the 54th Massachusetts Regiment, the first all-Black regiment in the Union Army. Warning: This one might get you misty-eyed.
The NEW Kid on the Block: The Embrace: Freshly unveiled in 2023, this 20-foot bronze sculpture features a powerful portrayal of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King in a loving embrace. Social Media Buzz: This one has sparked some lively discussions – is it a powerful symbol of unity, or a bit too abstract? Come see for yourself and decide!
Tip: Don’t just scroll to the end — the middle counts too.
What Statue Is In Boston Common |
But Wait, There's More!
Tip: Reread complex ideas to fully understand them.
This is just a taste of the sculptural smorgasbord that awaits you on Boston Common. Keep your eyes peeled for homages to abolitionist William Lloyd Garrison, author Edward Everett Hale, and even a random stag (don't ask, it's a long story).
How To conquer Boston Common's statues:
- How to Spot a Statue: Look for things made of metal that aren't squirrels. (Seriously, those squirrels are sneaky.)
- How to Learn More: Most statues have plaques with info – history buffs rejoice!
- How to Take a Great Photo: Get creative! Pose like a soldier next to the Soldiers and Sailors Monument, or recreate the King's embrace with your bestie.
- How to Dodge Geese Poop: This one's a tricky one. Maybe just admire the statues from afar?
- How to Have Fun: Just relax, enjoy the fresh air, and appreciate the art (and the squirrels, because, well, squirrels).