The Future of Removed Statues: Where They Go After Public Viewing

The removal of statues from public spaces has become a significant societal and cultural discussion, particularly in relation to controversial figures and symbols. Once these statues are no longer on public display, where do they go? This article explores the various destinations and fates of removed statues post-removal, focusing on the processes and considerations involved.

Where Statues End Up Post-Removal

When a city removes statues from public viewing, the most common destination for these monuments is a storage location. Statues are often placed in warehouses used for storing unused city property, including excess furniture and old light poles. These storage facilities provide a secure and cost-effective way to preserve the statues until a more permanent solution can be found. For instance, a city might place statues in a giant enclosure near junk cars, as one instance in Dallas illustrates.

Secret Storage Locations

Some controversial statues, particularly those related to Confederate figures, have been temporarily stored in secret locations. As reported by National Public Radio in 2018, authorities in some cities have opted to keep such statues hidden until they can decide on their long-term disposition. These secret storage sites were often in property yards or other undisclosed areas, ensuring the monuments were not accessible to potential vandals or protesters.

Auction and Redisplaying

In some cases, removed statues have been sold at auction. For example, a statue of Robert E. Lee in Dallas was sold at auction for $1.4 million and then purchased by someone who recast it for display on an exclusive golf course. This method of disposal combines financial benefit with a selective and controlled viewing environment. The protection of these controversial monuments from vandalism is crucial in today's climate.

Museum Considerations

Museums are not always the ideal destination for removed statues. While museums can provide historical context and educational value, they face practical challenges. Museums often lack the necessary space or resources to display every removed statue. Additionally, the security risks associated with handling and storing these statues are significant. Most museums cannot provide the stringent security measures needed to guard against vandalism and damage.

Alternative Dispositions

When local museums are not suitable, storage sites are a viable alternative. These storage facilities provide a secure and accessible location for long-term preservation. However, the ultimate goal is often to find a more appropriate and meaningful permanent home for the statues. This could involve community museums, historical societies, or other organizations with relevant historical and educational missions.

The Economic Value of Bronze Statues

Besides storage and redisplaying, another method of disposing of removed statues is to recycle them. Bronze, the material often used to create these monumental works, is highly valuable. Many cities have explored the option of melting down these statues for scrap metal. This process transforms the statues into a more practical and economically beneficial form, such as equipment or construction materials. The value of bronze can help offset the costs associated with their removal and storage.

Conclusion

The fate of removed statues is a multifaceted issue that raises questions about preservation, public sentiment, and historical context. Whether they are stored, sold, or recycled, the journey of these monuments after removal is both a practical and symbolic process. As communities continue to grapple with the legacy of controversial figures, the handling of their statues will continue to be a significant part of the broader cultural and historical discourse.