Statue of John Harvard

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Statue of John Harvard

The Statue of John Harvard is a prominent sculpture located in Harvard Yard at Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts. It is one of the university's most iconic landmarks and is often referred to as the "Statue of Three Lies."

History

The statue was created by sculptor Daniel Chester French and was dedicated on October 15, 1884. It was commissioned to commemorate John Harvard, the university's first benefactor, who bequeathed his library and half of his estate to the institution upon his death in 1638.

The Three Lies

The statue is commonly known as the "Statue of Three Lies" due to three inaccuracies: 1. The inscription on the statue reads "John Harvard, Founder, 1638." However, John Harvard was not the founder of the university; he was a benefactor. 2. The date 1638 is incorrect. Harvard University was founded in 1636. 3. The statue does not depict John Harvard himself. Since no known likeness of John Harvard exists, the model for the statue was actually a student named Sherman Hoar.

Location and Significance

The statue is located in front of University Hall in Harvard Yard. It is a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of the university. Visitors often rub the left shoe of the statue for good luck, although this practice is discouraged by the university due to the wear and tear it causes.

Related Pages

• Harvard University
• John Harvard (clergyman)
• Daniel Chester French
• Harvard Yard
• University Hall (Harvard University)

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