Heald Square Monument: A Tribute to American Revolution Financiers

The Heald Square Monument stands proudly in Heald Square, within Chicago's vibrant Loop community area. This bronze sculpture group, a Chicago Landmark since 1971, commemorates General George Washington alongside Robert Morris and Haym Salomon, the two primary financiers of the American Revolution.The monument's history dates back to the 1930s when Chicago civic leaders sought to honor these pivotal figures. Sculptor Lorado Taft began the design, depicting Morris and Salomon standing hand-in-hand with Washington. Following Taft's death in 1936, his associates Leonard Crunelle, Nellie Walker, and Fred Torrey completed the work. The monument was dedicated on December 15, 1941, coinciding with the 150th anniversary of the Bill of Rights. The attack on Pearl Harbor just a week before added further significance to the event.Heald Square itself is named after Captain Nathan Heald, who commanded Fort Dearborn from 1810 to 1812. The monument features an inscription with a quote from George Washington, emphasizing the importance of citizens supporting their government. A bronze plaque on the back of the granite base displays a seated Statue of Liberty. The monument serves as a reminder of the collaboration between civilians and soldiers that was crucial to the birth of the United States.