ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla.—Today, Governor Ron DeSantis unveiled a new statue of author, orator, abolitionist, and American Statesman Frederick Douglass in St. Augustine’s historic Plaza de la Constitución as part of the state’s ongoing commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary. The statue is located near the site where Douglass delivered a speech during his visit to St. Augustine in 1889, permanently linking his legacy to the civic and historical heart of America’s oldest continuously inhabited European settlement.
“Today, I was proud to unveil our newest statue honoring abolitionist, author, and statesman Frederick Douglass,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “A devout Christian, he dedicated his life to fighting for equality of all people under the law. Douglass was guided by the same belief that we hold dear today: Our rights are given to us by God, not government. You can visit his statue in the Plaza de la Constitución, near the site where Douglass once addressed Floridians in St. Augustine.”
“Frederick Douglass supported the Constitution as a foundational instrument of liberty for all Americans,” said Secretary of State Cord Byrd. “The America250FL celebration is about adults teaching future generations about our history. This statue honors Douglass not just as a figure in a textbook but as a man who dedicated his life to America’s founding principles.”
“Frederick Douglass embodied the highest ideals of the American experiment,” said Senator Darryl Rouson, Chair of the Florida Legislative Black Caucus. “This monument honors a man who helped move America closer to its founding promises of liberty, equality, and justice under the law. I want to thank Governor DeSantis for making sure Douglass’ impact on Florida is remembered across future generations.”
Born into slavery on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Douglass taught himself to read and write, escaped bondage in 1838, and rose to become one of the most influential abolitionists and moral leaders in American history. Through his speeches and writings, he challenged the nation to live up to the ideals enshrined in its founding documents. His autobiographies, including Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave and My Bondage and My Freedom, became foundational texts of the abolition movement.
During the Civil War, Douglass served as an advisor to President Abraham Lincoln and was a leading advocate for the enlistment of Black soldiers in the Union Army. After the war, he continued his service to the nation through presidential appointments as U.S. Marshall for the District of Columbia (appointed by President Hayes), Recorder of Deeds for the District of Columbia (appointed by President Garfield), and U.S. Minister Resident and Consul General to Haiti (appointed by President B. Harrison).
Douglass visited Florida’s First Coast in 1889 as part of a national tour, drawing massive crowds in Jacksonville before traveling to St. Augustine, where he delivered an address at the Genovar Opera House, once located near today’s Plaza de la Constitución.
The Plaza de la Constitución, in continuous use since the 1500s, sits at the center of St. Augustine’s historic district and is surrounded by iconic landmarks including the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine, Trinity Episcopal Church, the Government House, and Flagler College. The statue’s placement establishes a permanent tribute to Douglass in one of Florida’s most historically significant public spaces.
About America 250 Florida
Today’s unveiling is part of Florida’s broader initiative to honor the individuals who shaped our nation over the past 250 years and to preserve America’s civic pride and heritage for future generations.
America 250 Florida marks the state’s official observance of America’s semiquincentennial and will host and help sponsor special events throughout the year for Floridians from all corners of the state to enjoy. Floridians can find information on events, exhibits, heritage sites, and participation opportunities at America250FL.com, the state’s official hub for the Semiquincentennial celebration.
Media Release: Office of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, Image: Flagler News Weekly/Danielle Anderson
