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Washington, D.C., District of Columbia / Landmarks

Commodore John Paul Jones Memorial

A stately tribute to the American Revolution's most recognized naval hero, featuring a towering bronze statue and marble pylon situated near the scenic Tidal Basin in West Potomac Park.

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Commodore John Paul Jones Memorial
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What is the Commodore John Paul Jones Memorial known for?

The memorial honors John Paul Jones, a Scottish-born naval commander and the United States' first naval war hero, celebrated for his daring exploits during the American Revolutionary War.

Where is the Commodore John Paul Jones Memorial located?

It is located in West Potomac Park at the intersection of 17th Street and Independence Avenue SW in Washington, D.C., across from the Tidal Basin.

What does the memorial look like?

The memorial features a 10-foot bronze statue of Jones sculpted by Charles Henry Niehaus, set against a 15-foot marble pylon. It also includes two bronze dolphins shooting water and a relief depicting Jones raising the U.S. flag on the Bonhomme Richard.

When was the Commodore John Paul Jones Memorial dedicated?

The memorial was formally dedicated on April 17, 1912, with President William Howard Taft presiding over the ceremony.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Commodore John Paul Jones Memorial stands at the terminus of 17th Street and Independence Avenue SW in West Potomac Park. This landmark honors the Scottish-born naval commander who is celebrated as the United States' first naval war hero. After the American Revolutionary War, Jones was recognized for his daring exploits with the Congressional Gold Medal. The monument's creation was sparked by a renewed interest in the commander following the rediscovery of his body in 1905, a feat achieved after a four-year search funded by U.S. Ambassador Horace Porter. In June 1909, Congress allocated $50,000 to establish this tribute on the National Mall. The memorial was formally dedicated on April 17, 1912, with President William Howard Taft presiding over the ceremony. Architecturally, the site features a 10-foot bronze statue of Jones, sculpted by New York City artist Charles Henry Niehaus. This figure is positioned before a 15-foot marble pylon, which is flanked by two bronze dolphins that shoot water. The back of the pylon contains a relief depicting Jones raising the U.S. flag on his ship, the Bonhomme Richard, marking what is believed to be the first time the flag flew on an American warship. Though the National Park Service describes it as an overlooked statue, the memorial remains a site of active remembrance. It continues to serve as a location for ceremonial wreath-laying events, such as those held by the NSDAR to honor the naval legacy of the commander.

Visitor tips

  • Combine this stop with a walk around the nearby Tidal Basin for a scenic experience.
  • Look closely at the back of the marble pylon to see the relief of the Bonhomme Richard.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes as the memorial is located within the expansive West Potomac Park.

Nearby context

Located in West Potomac Park at the intersection of Independence Avenue SW and 17th Street SW, the memorial sits across from the Tidal Basin, placing it within the broader landscape of the National Mall's memorial corridor.

Sources

Evidence and links