Statue Of Abraham Lincoln

Visiting the Statue of Abraham Lincoln in Portland: Hours, History, and Comprehensive Visitor Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

The Statue of Abraham Lincoln in Portland, Oregon, stands as a prominent emblem of American history, public art, and the evolving discourse on historical memory and social justice. Originally installed in the South Park Blocks in 1928, this bronze monument, sculpted by George Fite Waters and donated by Dr. Henry Waldo Coe, honors the 16th President’s role in preserving the Union and abolishing slavery (Portland.gov, Smarthistory). However, the statue has also become a focal point for critical conversations about Lincoln’s contested legacy, especially in relation to Indigenous peoples.

This guide provides a detailed exploration of the statue’s artistic significance, complex history, current status, visitor information, accessibility, nearby attractions, and ongoing restoration efforts. Whether you are a history enthusiast, art lover, or a traveler seeking to engage with Portland’s dynamic public spaces, you’ll find all the information needed to plan a meaningful visit—or to understand the importance of this landmark in Portland’s civic landscape.

Statue of Abraham Lincoln by George Fite Waters in Portland Oregon

Stone statues in city parks of Portland, Oregon

Introduction
Historical Background
Artistic & Physical Details
Practical Visitor Information
Community Engagement & Educational Programming
Nearby Attractions & Suggested Itineraries
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary & Visitor Tips
References and Further Reading

Historical Background

Commissioning and Dedication

The Abraham Lincoln statue was commissioned in the early 20th century, reflecting a national movement to memorialize key American figures. Dr. Henry Waldo Coe, a philanthropist and physician, donated the statue to the city. Crafted by American sculptor George Fite Waters and cast at the renowned Claude Valsuani foundry in France, the work was completed in 1927 and dedicated on October 5, 1928, in the South Park Blocks (Portland.gov).

George Fite Waters: The Artist

Waters was known for his dignified, realistic portrayals of historical figures. His depiction of Lincoln is solemn and humanistic, drawing on early 20th-century trends that idealized national heroes in public art (Smarthistory).

Public Reception, Controversy, and the 2020 Protests

Initially, the statue symbolized unity and emancipation in a period of national reflection on the Civil War. Over time, public perception evolved, especially regarding Lincoln’s policies toward Indigenous peoples. On October 11, 2020, during the “Indigenous Peoples Day of Rage,” protesters toppled the statue in protest of historical injustices, referencing the “Dakota 38” (the largest mass execution in US history, ordered by Lincoln) (CNN, OPB, AP News).

Toppling, Storage, and Restoration Plans

After being toppled, the statue was moved to secure storage. Community engagement and city-led discussions followed, culminating in plans to restore and reinstall the statue with new interpretive signage that addresses both Lincoln’s achievements and his controversial policies (Portland.gov, OPB, Chronline, Fox News).

Artistic & Physical Details

Medium & Dimensions: Bronze, standing approximately 10 feet tall atop a granite pedestal, a prominent presence in the South Park Blocks (Wikiwand, Wikipedia).
Iconography: Lincoln stands upright, right hand at his side, left hand holding a document—often interpreted as the Emancipation Proclamation—emphasizing resolve and moral seriousness (Smarthistory).
Pedestal & Inscriptions: The granite base once featured inscriptions honoring Lincoln and the donor, which were defaced during the 2020 protests.
Craftsmanship: Cast at the esteemed Claude Valsuani foundry in France, reflecting meticulous attention to detail.

Practical Visitor Information

Location & Accessibility

Address: South Park Blocks, at SW Park Avenue & SW Madison Street (PresidentsUSA.net, Wikipedia).
Transit: Accessible via TriMet bus and MAX light rail; pedestrian and bike-friendly; several parking garages nearby.
ADA Access: The park and statue site are wheelchair accessible, with paved paths and benches.

Visiting Hours & Tickets

Park Hours: Open daily from dawn to dusk.
Fees: No admission fees; access is free to all.

Note: As of July 2025, the statue is still in storage and not available for public viewing. Restoration is scheduled to begin August 2025 and is expected to take about two months (Chronline). For reopening updates, visit the City of Portland’s official monuments page.

Amenities & Travel Tips

Nearby Facilities: Public restrooms, water fountains, bike racks, seating, and cafés within a short walk.
Best Times: Spring and summer for vibrant landscaping; early mornings or weekdays for fewer crowds.

Safety & Etiquette

Respect the site; do not climb or deface monuments.
Photography is encouraged, but be considerate of others.
The South Park Blocks are generally safe, but remain aware of surroundings, especially after dark.

Community Engagement & Educational Programming

Interpretive Signage: The restored statue will include new signage addressing Lincoln’s full legacy, including his policies toward Indigenous peoples (Portland.gov, Willamette Week).
Public Input: The 2024 Monuments Symposium and ongoing city forums have shaped plans for the statue’s future (OregonLive).
Educational Programs: Guided tours, lectures, and curricular materials will be expanded post-restoration (Portland.gov).
Commemorative Events: Annual ceremonies on Lincoln’s birthday and Presidents’ Day are expected to resume after the statue’s return (Wikipedia).

Nearby Attractions & Suggested Itineraries

Within walking distance:

Portland Art Museum: Extensive art collections.
Oregon Historical Society: Exhibits on Oregon’s diverse history.
Portland State University: Public events and performances.
PSU Farmers Market: Saturday mornings, local food and crafts.

Suggested Tour: Begin at the Lincoln statue, visit the Art Museum, enjoy lunch nearby, then explore the Historical Society.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for the Statue of Abraham Lincoln in Portland?
A: The South Park Blocks are open daily from dawn to dusk. The statue is expected to return after restoration in late 2025.

Q: Is there an admission fee or tickets required?
A: No, access is free and does not require tickets.

Q: Is the statue accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, the site and park are ADA accessible.

Q: When will the statue be reinstalled after restoration?
A: Restoration is scheduled for August 2025, with reinstallation expected a few months later. Check official city resources for updates.

Q: Are there guided tours or educational programs available?
A: Yes, guided tours and curriculum-based programs are offered. Contact the city’s arts office for arrangements.

Summary & Visitor Tips

The Abraham Lincoln statue in Portland is more than a work of public art; it is a living symbol of the city’s ongoing conversations about justice, memory, and historical interpretation. Its journey—from its 1928 dedication, through toppling in 2020, to ongoing restoration—mirrors broader societal shifts and the complexities of public memory (Fox News, OPB, Chronline, Portland.gov).

As restoration moves forward, the statue will return to a thoughtfully reinterpreted space, inviting reflection and dialogue. In the meantime, visitors can enjoy the South Park Blocks, nearby museums, and public art. For up-to-date information, consult city resources and consider using the Audiala app for guided tours and cultural insights.