Raphael Semmes Monument (Mobile, Alabama)
Confederate
Statue of Rear Admiral Raphael Semmes, Mobile, Alabama. Removed: 5 June 2020
This standing figure represents the Confederate Rear Admiral Raphael Semmes. Dressed in a long coat and cap, Semmes has one hand on his hip and holds binoculars in the other. His gaze is distant, as if he is looking out to sea. Infamous for his raids on Northern ships, Semmes captained the C.S. steamer Alabama during the Civil War. A small bronze relief of this ship used feature on the monument's plinth but, following the statue's removal to the nearby History Museum of Mobile in June 2020, this is no longer present. The monument was removed from public space following the murder of George Floyd and the protests his death inspired.
Monument type:
Statue - high ranking official
Artist:
Caspar Buberl (1834-1899)
Dedication Date:
0179-01-01
Address:
Mobile
Mobile County
Alabama
United States
Inscription:
C. Buberl Sc. 1899/NY (On plaque on upper front of base, raised:) COMMANDER/C.S. STEAMER/ALABAMA/REAR-ADMIRAL/C.S. NAVY/--/SAILOR, PATRIOT,/STATESMAN,/SCHOLAR,/AND/CHRISTIAN/GENTLEMAN (Below upper plaque, incised:) ERECTED JUNE 27, 1900 (On plaque on middle front, incised:) 1861-1865 (Plaque depicting the C.S. steamer Alabama at sea on lower front).
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Conception Date:
Opening Date:
1899-01-01
Material:
Bronze figure and plaques (with green patina); granite base.
Size:
2.54m x 3.5052000000000003m x 2.5908m
Creator:
Ersnt Vatier Foundry, Newark, N.J.
Cost / Value:
$6,000 (http://runningtheblockade.blogspot.com/). Circular issued (1891) estimated $10,000-$12,000 would be needed for its completion
Erected by:
Ann T. Hunter Chapter Auxiliary of Raphael Semmes Camp 11, Sons of Confederate Veterans. (Initial impetus Lee Association)
Funded by:
Ann T. Hunter Chapter Auxiliary of Raphael Semmes Camp 11, Sons of Confederate Veterans. (Initial impetus Lee Association)
Run by:
Ann T. Hunter Chapter Auxiliary of Raphael Semmes Camp 11, Sons of Confederate Veterans. (Initial impetus Lee Association)
Indigenous Land
Organization/Curator:
Data Sources:
Read below for one of our contributor’s reflections on this monument