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Gen. William F. Draper Statue Celebrates its 100th Anniversary
Milford residents and officials gathered in September to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the dedication of the General Draper statue.
What happens when a notable work of public art turns 100? In Milford, this was cause for celebration. The Milford Historical Commission organized a big party to mark the 100th anniversary of the dedication of the Gen. William F. Draper statue, which sits at center of what is now Draper Memorial Park. It features Gen. William F. Draper, who commanded the Massachusetts 25th Regiment in the Civil War, through a series of southern campaigns. The statue, in bronze, sits on a base of granite from a Milford quarry. It was given 100 years ago to the town of Milford as a gift, from his wife, Susan Preston Draper. Daniel Chester French, an American sculptor (1850-1931), created the statue. French is among the most notable American sculptors. He also…
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Roger
1:55 pm on Monday, October 1, 2012
Great photos, Jim! Milford is fortunate to have such a remarkable statue. General Draper was a natural born leader and Daniel Chester French was the foremost sculptor of his day. Henry Bacon was also recognized Sunday because he designed the pedestal and park. Your article was very interesting and I'm so happy you included pictures of General Draper's great-grandchildren. Anne & Roger more ›