Monument to the Flag
Guárico
The Monument to the Flag is a significant public artwork commemorating the Bear Flag Revolt, an important event in California's history that marked the region's declaration of independence from Mexican rule in 1846. The monument features a bronze sculpture of a man standing upright on a massive rock base weighing approximately 40 tons. He holds a flagpole in his left hand and a hat in his right, dressed in period attire with a neckerchief and rolled-up sleeves, embodying the spirit of the Bear Flag Party. Four bronze plaques adorn the rock base, including depictions of the grizzly bear emblem, crossed flags of the United States and California, and scenes of the revolt itself. Located on the northeastern corner of Sonoma Plaza, this site is traditionally recognized as the spot where the Bear Flag was first raised on June 14, 1846. The monument was dedicated in 1914, drawing large crowds and notable figures such as then-Governor Hiram Johnson. It continues to be a focal point for annual celebrations, honoring California's unique historical heritage and its path to statehood.
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Astuce: Visitors are encouraged to visit during the annual Bear Flag Celebration held each June 14th to witness the ceremonial raising of the flag and partake in commemorative events. Arriving early in the day helps avoid crowds and allows ample time to explore Sonoma Plaza. While the monument is outdoors and accessible year-round, spring and early summer offer pleasant weather for visiting. There are no specific ticket requirements, but checking local event schedules can enhance the experience. Nearby amenities and guided tours of Sonoma Plaza provide additional context and enjoyment.
Faits intéressants
- •The rock base of the monument weighs approximately 40 tons.
- •The monument was dedicated on June 14, 1914, attracting over 5,000 visitors and 1,000 automobiles, the largest crowd Sonoma had seen at the time.
- •The bronze plaques include a depiction of the Bear Flag Revolt with men on horseback and on foot raising the flag.
- •The monument was declared the seventh California Historical Landmark in 1932.
- •The original plaque depicting the revolt was moved from the front to the back of the base between 1914 and 1923.
Histoire
The Monument to the Flag was erected to commemorate the Bear Flag Revolt of June 14, 1846, when American settlers declared California's independence from Mexican control.
Groundbreaking for the monument took place on October 30, 1913, with installation completed shortly before the dedication on June 14, 1914.
The monument was a joint effort by the state of California and the Native Sons of the Golden West, symbolizing state pride and historical remembrance.
In 1932, it was designated a California Historical Landmark, recognizing its cultural and historical importance.
Over the years, the monument has remained a central symbol of California's early statehood and its unique revolutionary heritage.
Guide du lieu
Bronze Sculpture of the Flag Bearer1914
A detailed bronze figure of a man standing upright on a massive rock, holding a flagpole in his left hand and a hat in his right. He wears a neckerchief and rolled-up sleeves, representing a member of the Bear Flag Party.
Bronze Plaques on Rock Base1914
Four bronze plaques adorn the base: one shows a grizzly bear on a shield with crossed flags of the United States and California; another depicts the raising of the Bear Flag during the revolt; additional plaques include the foundry mark and artist signature.
