Council Bluffs, IA - Daniel Chester French, the celebrated American sculptor behind the iconic Minute Man statue in Concord, Massachusetts, and the majestic Abraham Lincoln statue within the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., also left his mark on Council Bluffs. In 1918, French created the striking Ruth Anne Dodge Memorial, commonly known as the Black Angel. Commissioned in honor of Ruth Anne Dodge, the widow of railroad magnate Grenville Dodge, this masterpiece stands as a significant piece of public art. However, despite its artistic and historical value, the memorial was never formally dedicated, adding an air of mystery to its legacy.
Discover the history of the Ruth Anne Dodge Memorial at the Council Bluffs Public Library on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. Historian Robert Svacina will explore the planning and creation of this remarkable sculpture, exploring the innovative methods used by renowned sculptor Daniel Chester French. Many of these techniques went on to shape some of his most famous works. The program will also examine the unexpected turn of events that led to the memorial’s dedication shifting from a highly anticipated public event to a small, unannounced ceremony.
This program is free and open to the public. For more information, visit our website at: https://www.councilbluffslibrary.org/event/ruth-anne-dodge-memorial-18473
Event Details
When: Thursday, April 3, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Where: Council Bluffs Public Library, 400 Willow Ave., Council Bluffs, IA - Meeting Room B
Who: Best suited for those 18 and up.
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