Join the bring bernardo back brigade, an effort to return the equestrian statue of Bernardo Vicente Apolinar de Gálvez y Madrid to its orginal place by the mississippi river in new orleans
Don Bernardo de Gálvez y Madrid
- Fifth Governor of Spanish Louisiana (1777-1783).
- Drove the British from the Mississippi River and the Gulf of Mexico, keeping vital supply lines open during the American War of Independence.
- Gave Louisiana its first military glory.
- Allowed to add the “I Alone” (“Yo Solo”) to his Coat of Arms by King Charles III.
- Positioned New Orleans as the Gateway to the Americas.
- Promoted to Viceroy of New Spain (Mexico and Central America)
- Named one of only eight persons awarded Honorary Citizenship of the United States, joining singular figures such as Winston Churchill and Mother Teresa.
Former Site of Gálvez Monument in New Orleans.
Photographer: Richard E. Miller.
Taken: July 15, 2009
Additional Description: view northward from the New Orleans World Trade Center.
Submitted: October 30, 2009, by Richard E. Miller of Oxon Hill, Maryland.
Database Locator Identification Number: p82952 Website: https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=41111
gálvez’s importance
The Gálvez statue is of particular significance to members of the local Hispanic community and all lovers of New Orleans’ rich history.
Bernardo de Gálvez, a Spanish military leader and colonial administrator, played a pivotal role in the American Revolutionary War. Serving as the Governor of Louisiana, Gálvez secured vital support for the American colonies, contributing significantly to their fight for independence. Gálvez’s strategic brilliance and unwavering commitment earned him the "Hero of the American Revolution" title.
In 1777, Gálvez became the governor of the Louisiana Territory during the Spanish governance period. His career was propelled by his father, a general in Mexico/Central America, and his uncle, a royal minister under Carlos III. The young governor promptly endeared himself to the local colony by marrying a Creole beauty, Marie Felicité de Saint-Maxent d’Estrehan.
WHY DONATE?
Your contribution to Bring Bernardo Back is a commitment to preserving history, fostering community pride, enriching the cultural fabric of New Orleans, and making a lasting impact on the community. By donating, you also support our New Orleans cultural heritage, and your generosity will be recognized and appreciated by residents and visitors alike.
WAYS TO DONATE:
In-person: Visit any Gulf Coast Bank location and deposit directly to:
Gulf Coast Bank
Account #:101473445
Routing: 265070435
Online: Click below to make your donation securely online.
Fundraising Events: Stay tuned for upcoming exciting fundraising events! Your participation in these events will allow for additional fundraising and provide further awareness of the Gálvez Monument Re-erection project.
THE gálvez monument
Donated by the Government of Spain, the Bernardo de Gálvez Monument was erected in 1977 to commemorate the bicentennial year of the independence of the United States to which the Spanish Governor so decisively contributed.
When work began to convert the World Trade Center Building (“WTC”) into a hotel and residences, the Four Seasons Group committed to protecting the statue by removing it during the construction phase and refurbishing it in preparation for its return to its historical site, guarding the river.
After a five-year absence, concerned residents want to raise the funds necessary to re-erect and relocate the Gálvez Monument on an enhanced pedestal, which the new restoration design recommends and the monument deserves.
JOIN the bring bernardo back brigade!
Echoing the efforts of the historic fundraising by THE LADIES OF HAVANA on behalf of George Washington Rebel Army in 1781, the DAMAS Y CABALLEROS DE NUEVA ORLEANS (THE LADIES AND GENTLEMEN OF NEW ORLEANS) was established as a 501(c)3 organization to provide advice, direction, and seek funding sources that will ensure the Gálvez monument is re-erected at its prominent place on a proper pedestal.
GOAL: We aim to raise $300,000 to construct an adequate pedestal, erect the monument, reinforce its structural integrity, and provide for its perpetual care. By reaching this goal, we can ensure that future generations can admire and learn from this historical monument.
Gálvez Monument proposed Site. Canal Street, New Orleans.
HELP US SPREAD THE WORD!
Share about this campaign on social media! Tell your friends and family and encourage them to join us in preserving this historical treasure.
Together, let’s Bring Bernardo Back and ensure that the monument’s significance edures for generations to come. Your support will help us honor our past, celebrate our present, and shape our future.
Help is in this noble cause and be a part of history in the making!
Fundraising gala coming in the spring 2024
BRING BERNARDO BACK
THANK YOU FOR YOUR DONATION!
participating organizations
Isabel (Betsy) Badia Hewett, RA
ARCHITECTURAL CONSULTANT
anamaria bech
MARKETING CONSULTANT
For questions, contact
damas y caballeros de Nueva Orleans
Email Address
galvezmonument@gmail.com
phone
(504) 517-6079