1908 Race Riot Sculpture Dedication
In August, 2009 a sculpture was dedicated to commemorate the 100th Anniversary
of the Springfield, Illinois 1908 Race Riot. The sculpture has scenes from the
1908 Race Riot which began August 14, 1908. The two pieces of bronze depicts the
burned out gables of a home. The aftermath of the Race Riot led to the formation
of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).
The sculpture was conceived by then NAACP Branch president, Ken Page. His vision
led him to work with the Illinois Capitol Development Board to secure $300,000.00
for the sculpture that was designed by world renowned artist, Preston Jackson. The
sculpture stands in Union Square Park on the campus of the Abraham Lincoln
Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield, Illinois.
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