WASHINGTON (7News) — Dozens of bronze statues have appeared at Freedom Plaza in Washington, D.C., including a controversial equestrian monument of Revolutionary War figure Caesar Rodney — a signer of the Declaration of Independence who also enslaved hundreds of people during his lifetime.
The installation, carried out by the National Park Service (NPS), is part of broader programming tied to America’s upcoming 250th anniversary, according to the Department of the Interior.
MAY 2026 – Dozens of bronze statues have appeared at Freedom Plaza in Washington, D.C. (Raul Candia/7News)
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On April 25, Secretary Doug Burgum posted on X that, as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, President Donald Trump is “committed to celebrating and acknowledging the full breadth of our nation’s history, including the story of Caesar Rodney and his pivotal ride in July 1776.”
MAY 2026 – Dozens of bronze statues have appeared at Freedom Plaza in Washington, D.C. (Raul Candia/7News)
Rodney’s statue was previously removed in Delaware in 2020 amid national debates over monuments and following the death of George Floyd.
The Department of the Interior released the following statement to 7News:
“The Caesar Rodney statue was successfully installed at Freedom Plaza on Saturday, April 25. As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, the Trump administration has been committed to celebrating and acknowledging the full breadth of our nation’s history, including the story of Caesar Rodney and his pivotal ride in July 1776. Rodney’s journey itself reflected extraordinary courage. Despite being gravely ill with a cancerous condition that caused him constant pain, he rode through a violent storm to cast Delaware’s deciding vote for American Independence. The hard work and sacrifices of the men and women who built this nation deserve to be remembered and honored.
The exhibition at Freedom Plaza also features twelve bronze statues of Revolutionary War soldiers arranged in a civic tableau commemorating the 250th anniversary of American independence. The twelve soldiers represent the collective sacrifice of those who served during the Revolutionary War, reflecting the broad range of individuals who contributed to the nation’s founding. Together, the installation will transform Freedom Plaza into a space of remembrance and reflection, inviting visitors to connect with the people and pivotal moments that shaped the early history of the United States.
Through President Trump, we have encouraged Americans to visit our cultural and historic sites and engage in meaningful conversations about the moments that have shaped our country. By telling the full story, every triumph, every challenge, and every step towards a more perfect union we strengthen our shared understanding and ensure that future generations inherit not just the land we love, but the truth of the journey that brought us here.”
The plaza itself has remained closed for months, with no reopening date announced.