Edward Everett Hale statue

Public Art: Edward Everett Hale statue

Sculptor: © Bela Lyon Pratt (December 11th, 1867 – May 18th, 1917)

Description: A life-size bronze statue of clergyman and writer Edward Everett Hale on a granite base. The statue depicts Hale in his later life with a cane in one hand and hat in the other, as though he is simply taking a leisurely stroll through the public gardens of Boston.

Date Unveiled: When the statue of Hale was unveiled in 1913, Mayor Fitzgerald proclaimed “If you seek his real monument you will find it in the hearts of the poor and the oppressed.”

Inscription :

Man of Letters – Preacher of Gospel – Prophet of Peace – Patriot – 1822-1909

Location: The Edward Hale statue is located in Boston Public Garden, near Charles St, Boston, Massachusetts.

Who Was Edward Everett Hale? Edward Everett Hale (April 3, 1822 – June 10, 1909) was an American author, historian, and clergyman. Born in Boston, Edward was a somewhat gifted child. At the age of 13, he was enrolled at Harvard University, thanks to his extraordinary writing skills which no doubt was encouraged by his father, who was the editor of the Boston Daily Advertiser.

In 1846 he became pastor of the Church of the Unity, Worcester, Massachusetts and later for the South Congregational Church, Boston. Hale had a keen interest in the anti-slavery movement and was a constant contributor to newspapers and magazines.

He used his writing, both in fiction and nonfiction to highlight religious tolerance, the abolition of slavery and education reforms. One of Hale’s most famous quotes is “I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. What I can do, I ought to do and, by the grace of God, I shall do.”

In 1903 he became Chaplain of the United States Senate.