Emancipation Memorial: A symbol of freedom
The Emancipation Memorial pays tribute to the work of President Lincoln in his fight against slavery and his Emancipation Proclamation. Situated appropriately in Lincoln Park in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, the memorial was built in 1876 with funds contributed by former slaves, including Lincoln's own former slave Charlotte Scott. It was known as the “Lincoln Memorial” before the actual Lincoln Memorial on the National Mall was built.
Lincoln Park, east of the U.S. Capitol, is bordered by 11th Street NE and SE on the west, 13th Street NE and SE on the east, East Capitol Street NE on the North, and East Capitol Street SE on the south.
The statue was designed by sculptor Thomas Ball. It shows President Lincoln waving his hand over the head of an African-American at his feet, as if granting him freedom. The man was modeled after ex-slave Archer Alexander, about whom William Greenleaf Eliot wrote a biography. He is shirtless and wears shackles on his ankles, looking up at the President.
Many African-American critics have called the position inferior, calling the crouching at the feet a perpetuation of racism. Frederick Douglass, who was keynote speaker at the statue's dedication, also noted that the crouched position was a little less manly than if the individual was standing next to Lincoln. Other critics noted that Alexander and Lincoln had never met in person, although some say the representation of both was significant enough for a meaningful memorial.
Lincoln holds a copy of the Emancipation Proclamation in one hand, which rests on a plinth bearing a shield with the stars and stripes, Washington's profile and other tributes to America.
The memorial was created by funds raised from people not only in support of Lincoln but directly affected by his efforts to free slaves. A volunteer war-relief agency, based in St. Louis and run by white people, spearheaded the fundraising.
Posted by Rin-rin Yu
