Reverend Dr. John Witherspoon, a Scottish-born clergyman (1723-1794), stands as a pivotal figure in American history, both as one of the nation’s Founding Fathers and a significant leader within early American Presbyterianism. Upon invitation from Benjamin Rush and Richard Stockton, Dr. Witherspoon journeyed to America in 1768 to assume the presidency of the Presbyterian College of New Jersey, an institution that would later become the esteemed Princeton University. His influence extended beyond academia when he was elected to the Continental Congress in 1776, distinguishing himself as the only active clergyman to sign the Declaration of Independence.
The Horticulture Center in Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park is home to a compelling bronze and granite memorial dedicated to Dr. John Witherspoon. Erected by members of the Presbyterian Church for the 1876 Centennial Exhibition, this statue captures a powerful moment in history. It depicts Dr. John Witherspoon delivering an impassioned speech advocating for the Declaration of Independence to his fellow delegates, a document he would later endorse with his signature.
The statue immortalizes Witherspoon’s fervent support for American independence, portraying him in mid-speech as he swayed his peers toward the Declaration of Independence.
While Dr. Witherspoon was a vocal champion of American liberty, his stance on slavery presents a more complex picture. Although he publicly voiced opposition to slavery, deeming it unlawful, historical records indicate that he remained a slaveholder until his passing in 1794. For deeper insights into this aspect of his life, you can explore resources at the Princeton University Art Museum ››.
The base of the statue bears a poignant quote from this very speech, encapsulating Dr. Witherspoon’s dedication: “…And although these grey hairs must soon descend into sepulchre I would infinitely rather that they descend thither by the hand of the executioner than desert at this crisis the sacred cause of my country.” This inscription serves as a powerful reminder of his commitment to the American cause.
The artistry behind this memorial is attributed to Joseph A. Bailly. Forced to flee France in 1848, Bailly sought refuge in Philadelphia in 1850. A trained sculptor and furniture wood carver with formative studies at the French Institute, he also imparted his skills as an instructor at the prestigious Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. Philadelphia also proudly displays Bailly’s marble George Washington within City Hall’s Conversation Hall, further showcasing his artistic contributions to the city.
To enrich your experience with the Dr. John Witherspoon statue and other public artworks, the Museum Without Walls: AUDIO program offers insightful audio segments. In this program, Alexander “Sandy” Stoddart, a Scottish sculptor of considerable renown who also created a John Witherspoon statue (casts of which reside in Princeton, NJ, and Paisley, Scotland), provides his perspective. Fred Heuser, former Executive Director of the Presbyterian Historical Society of Philadelphia, and Jeffry H. Morrison, author of John Witherspoon & the Founding of the American Republic and professor at Regent University, also lend their voices, offering diverse insights into Dr. Witherspoon’s legacy and the statue itself. Segment production is credited to John DeLore.
The Museum Without Walls: AUDIO is an award-winning initiative by the Association for Public Art, designed to enhance engagement with Philadelphia’s outdoor sculptures. Accessible via phone, mobile app, or online, it features over 150 voices, including artists, historians, and community members, offering a rich tapestry of perspectives on these artworks.
This monument is a featured stop on the Around the Horticulture Center tour, inviting further exploration of the area’s cultural and horticultural treasures.
