A statue's move: twice on the same block

A statue's move: twice on the same block

In the heart of Washington, a bronze sculpture of photography's father, Louis Daguerre. But why is it not in its original spot?

The Daguerre Memorial, a bronze and granite statue by Jonathan Scott Hartley, is a tribute to Louis Daguerre, the inventor of the daguerreotype and 'father' of photography. Erected in 1890 by the Photographers Association of America, it was initially located outside the Old Patent Office Building. However, in 1897, it was moved outside to make way for the construction of the Hirshhorn Museum. It remained outside until 1969, when it was removed and placed into storage. In 1989, on the 150th anniversary of photography, the Daguerre Memorial was relocated and rededicated near the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the National Portrait Gallery, where it now stands.

Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons

Written by Friendly Jane

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