To spot the Seated Lincoln, look for a larger-than-life bronze statue of Abraham Lincoln sitting quietly on a bench beside the steps to the courthouse, his tall hat set thoughtfully by his side.
Now, let’s dive into the story! Imagine it’s a bright Memorial Day in 1911-there’s a crowd buzzing with excitement right where you’re standing, and a bronze Abraham Lincoln sits quietly, looking more like he’s lost in thought than ready to give a grand speech. That was exactly what sculptor Gutzon Borglum had in mind! Instead of putting Lincoln high on a throne or tall pedestal, Borglum wanted to show a quieter, more human side of Honest Abe-maybe reflecting on tough decisions, just like he was rumored to do while sitting alone on a bench in the White House garden during the Civil War.
The sculpture itself was paid for by local businessman Amos Van Horn, who certainly knew how to make a lasting impression-his bequest also funded the huge Wars of America monument nearby! But back in 1911, this Lincoln sculpture was so unusual that when President Theodore Roosevelt himself dedicated it, he blurted out, “Why, this doesn’t look like a monument at all!” Borglum just grinned; that was exactly what he wanted to hear.
And here’s a fun twist: Lincoln’s visit to Newark in 1861 lasted only 45 minutes! He was on his way to be sworn in and took a short stop here at the invitation of local officials. Even though he didn’t win most people’s votes in Essex County, Newark makes up for it now with tributes like this. So, next time you need to mull something over, you’ll know where to sit and look pensive-Lincoln-style!
