TraplanzThe roots that underpin the relationship between France and the United States run deep. By providing economic support, men to fight, and alignment in ideology, the French gave the colonists the resources which helped oust their British landlords and become a new nation. The reminders of that early and continued friendship are found throughout Paris. Click on each highlighted name to view the directions for locating each monument.
Ben Franklin Statue – Yorktown Square
Franklin first stepped onto Parisian soil in 1776, seeking support from France in America’s fight for independence. Almost immediately, Franklin fell in love with the city. The feeling was mutual. He stayed in Paris for almost a decade, and signed the Treaty of Paris in 1873, thus giving America its independence.
Thomas Jefferson Statue – Leopold-Ledar-Senghor Footbridge
Jefferson is considered one of the Founding Fathers of the United States of America. He was elected the third President of the United States. From 1785 to 1789, Jefferson served as the US Ambassador to France.
George Washington on Horseback – Place d’Iena
If there is one person who embodies the spirit and will of Americans through the Revolutionary War and the country’s birth, it would be George Washington. He was the Commanding General of the Continental Army. He was the country’s first President. Washington never made it to Paris, and several of his policies as President did not align with France. In spite of this, the statue represents a reminder and thank you to France for their vital support during America’s war for independence.
Washington and Lafayette Statue – Place das Etas-Unis
Symbolizing the gratitude Americans held for their French allies, this statue depicts George Washington, and Marquis de Lafayette. The pragmatic reason for the statue is it was a sort of a “thank you” for France’s gift of the Statue of Liberty found in New York harbor.
The MANY Statues of Liberty – Several Locations
There are multiple Statues of Liberty across Paris. Luxembourg Gardens, The Orsay Museum, The Musee des Arts et Metiers, and a quarter scale replica of Lady Liberty stands tall in the Ile aux Cignes in the Seine. Auguste Bartholdi was Parisian and created the original statue standing in New York harbor. It is a recognized symbol of freedom by millions, and that symbol is displayed proudly throughout Paris.
Harry’s New York Bar – 5 Rue Daunou
This establishment has been around since 1911 and is known the world over as the birthplace to the Bloody Mary cocktail. Patrons may find some heavy-handed pours in this joint. Americans may grin at recognizing their alma mater, as college pennants line the walls in this memorabilia-packed bar.
