The Controversial Return of Albert Pike’s Statue in Washington, D.C.
The statue of Albert Pike, a Confederate general, has been reinstalled in Judiciary Square, Washington, D.C., after being torn down and set ablaze during the Black Lives Matter protests in June 2020. This move follows an earlier announcement by the National Park Service, which committed to restoring the statue, citing damage during what they described as “riots.” Read more about the reinstallation here.
Erected in 1901, the statue has sparked controversy for years. It is the only monument in D.C. honoring a Confederate general, though it omits mention of Pike’s military past. Instead, the Freemasons, who originally established the monument, highlight Pike’s roles as “author, poet, scholar, soldier, jurist, orator, philanthropist, and philosopher.”
Despite his pardon by President Andrew Johnson, Pike’s legacy remains contentious. Historians suggest he may have been involved in the Ku Klux Klan’s development post-Civil War, adding to the debate surrounding his commemoration. For more on Pike’s history, visit this Washington Post article.
The D.C. Council has advocated for the statue’s removal since 1992, reflecting ongoing local opposition. Find more details here.
In an official statement, the National Park Service explained the statue’s restoration and reinstallation as part of federal responsibilities under historic-preservation law and executive orders aimed at beautifying the capital. They emphasized the importance of restoring pre-existing statues.
However, not everyone is in favor of the statue’s return. Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.) strongly opposed the reinstallation, describing it as “an affront to the mostly Black and Brown residents of the District of Columbia and offensive to members of the military who serve honorably.” Her full statement is available here.
Norton criticized Pike’s legacy, claiming he “served dishonorably” and arguing that Confederate statues should be preserved in museums rather than public spaces that imply honor. She stated, “Pike represents the worst of the Confederacy and has no claim to be memorialized in the Nation’s capital.” In response, Norton has introduced a bill to permanently remove the statue.
