The Forefathers Monument
by Henry Luo 3 August 2025
As Singapore, our nation, celebrates her sixtieth year of independence, it is good to reflect on our journey, draw lessons from the stories of other countries, and inspire a renewed appreciation for the ideals that continue to shape societies around the world.
The National Monument to the Forefathers, formerly known as the Pilgrim Monument, erected in AD 1889 at Plymouth, Massachusetts, is the world’s largest solid granite monument. It encapsulates the core values of the founders of America, among whom were many Puritans. Unlike the Statue of Liberty, this monument emphasises the spiritual convictions and communal principles that guided America’s early founders.
The Monument denotes the historical legacy of the pilgrims, with five statues symbolising the five components that they used to lay the foundation for self-government in the new world.
1. Faith. Facing east, where the pilgrims first began their journey, Faith stands with her foot planted on a Plymouth rock and towers over the seated statues below as a commanding symbol of the pilgrims’ most defining quality. She is seen crowned with a star, holding a bible, and pointing to heaven.
2. Morality. A female figure, seen holding the Decalogue (the Ten Commandments) and the scroll of Revelation, and wearing a decorative panel mimicking the breastplate of an Ephod (A priestly garment described in Exodus).
3. Law. The male figure that appears serious and authoritative, which is an apt demeanour for the rules of conduct that are required to maintain a peaceful, orderly society. He is seen with one hand holding the Rule of Law and the other hand extending in mercy.
4. Education. Crowned with a victor’s wreath to signify the honour of learning, she holds a book and points to its open pages to emphasise the importance of gaining knowledge and cultivating intellect.
5. Liberty. Draped in the victor’s prize of a slain lion’s pelt, cradling a sword and holding the broken chains of his captivity, Liberty symbolises freedom from all tyranny and oppression.
– With reference to “Forefathers Monument Guidebook” written by Michelle Gallagher
How the pilgrims established self-government at Plymouth, Massachusetts
The National Monument to the Forefathers
“There is no creature so perfect in wisdom and knowledge but may learn something for time present, and to come by times past”
– Pastor John Robinson, spiritual leader of the Pilgrims.
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