John Albion Andrew - Boston, MA
Posted by: neoc1
N 42° 21.496 W 071° 03.794
19T E 330086 N 4691617
A marble statue of former Governor John Albion Andrew is located inside entrance to Doric Hall in the Massachusetts State House at 24 Beacon Street, Boston, MA.
Waymark Code: WMN081
Location: Massachusetts, United States
Date Posted: 12/01/2014
Views: 3
John Albion Andrew was born in Windham is present day Maine on May 31, 1818. He graduated from Bowdoin College began practicing law. A staunch abolitionist, Andrew vehemently opposed the Dred Scott decision and worked tirelessly to advance the interest of escaped slaves. He thereafter entered state politics and was elected Governor of Massachusetts in 1860.
Andrew strongly support the Union effort during the Civil War. he obtained funds for the state militia and personally issued arms and regimental colors to the troops entering into service. Andrew was instrumental is forming the first black regiment, the 54th Massachusetts Regiment, under the leadership of Colonel Robert Gould Shaw.
He served as Governor from 1861 to 1866 and died shortly after leaving office on October 30, 1867. He is buried in Hingham (Old Ship) Cemetery in Hingham, MA.
In 1870 Thomas Ball created an 80" by 37.5" by 19" marble statue of Governor Andrew. He is standing on a 5' high by 3' square marble base. Andrew is wearing a three piece suit, bow tie, and a cape over his shoulders. He is holding a scroll at waist level with his left hand. With is right hand he is grasping his cape just below his right shoulder. On the plinth is inscribed JOHN A. ANDREW. The statue was a gift of the citizens of Massachusetts and dedicated on February 14, 1871.
The Massachusetts State House is open to the public Monday through Friday from 10 am to 4 pm. All visitors must enter through the General Hooker entrance.