A rare bronze casting of Jean-Antoine Houdon’s 1788 marble statue of George Washington stands on Dickinson Street in Springfield, one of only 26 in the world. On the eve of Washington’s 293rd birthday, members of the Daughters of the American Revolution and Mayor Domenic J. Sarno gathered to honor the nation’s founding father. Sarno proclaimed February 22 as “George Washington Day” in Springfield, recognizing Washington’s significant contributions to American history. The DAR has been celebrating Washington’s birthday for the past decade since discovering the statue in Springfield. The bronze statue was one of many cast from the original marble carved by Houdon in 1788, offering a lifelike representation of Washington. The statue, which stands six feet two inches tall, was installed at the former Holy Name School by Father McGovern in 1932. The statue’s unique depiction of Washington in contemporary military clothing reflects his desire to appear as a man of his time. Members of the DAR expressed their pride in honoring Washington’s legacy and pledged to continue recognizing his birthday at the statue. The statue on Dickinson Street serves as a reminder of Washington’s historical significance and contributions to the United States.
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