State House celebrates Rhode Island Independence Day with return of Independent Man

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Independent Man was on display Saturday as the statue returned from its refurbishment in time for Rhode Island Independence Day.

“Two-hundred-forty-eight years ago, Rhode Island was the first of 13 colonies to declare independence from Great Britain,” Gov. Dan McKee said. “What better way to commemorate this day than with the official return of the newly-restored Independent Man – our state symbol of hope and freedom.”

The statue received a new layer of gold leaf and will be on display in the State House during normal hours until it is returned to the dome in the fall.