Florida Governor Ron DeSantis unveiled a new statue of President James Monroe, the namesake of Monroe County, in the Keys in Monroe County as part of the ongoing statewide commemoration of America’s 250th birthday.
It was also part of the state celebration of George Washington’s Birthday, which the Governor recognized as a state holiday in 2026. 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.
“In recognition of his contributions to our country, I was proud to unveil the statue of President James Monroe near Bahia Honda State Park in Monroe County today,” said Republican Governor Ron DeSantis. “In Florida, we honor our nation’s history, celebrate those who made our country great, and strive to pass down their legacy of civic virtue to the next generation.”
The unveiling is part of a broader initiative announced last year to place statues of the Founding Fathers in Florida counties that bear their names, reinforcing civic pride, historical literacy, and respect for the nation’s founding principles. President Monroe, the nation’s fifth president, played a pivotal role in American history through his service in the Revolutionary War, his decades of diplomatic leadership, and his presidency following the War of 1812. His legacy is deeply tied to Florida through the Adams-Onís Treaty of 1819, which transferred Florida from Spain to the United States, and through the Monroe Doctrine, which established American leadership in the Western Hemisphere.
The Monroe statue also reflects Florida’s broader commitment to civic education, historical preservation, and American heritage, as the state continues to lead nationally in civics instruction, education freedom, and higher education excellence.
The monument is part of the newly designated Spottswood Heritage Trail, named in honor of the late Monroe County Sheriff and State Senator John M. Spottswood, a community leader and veteran whose legacy of service and conservation continues through the preservation of surrounding lands and waterways. It is located adjacent to Bahia Honda State Park, the historic Flagler Railroad Bridge, and Coupon Bight Aquatic Preserve.
“Every mile of coastline and acre of our beautiful landscape serves as a monument to President James Monroe who saw the potential of Florida,” said Secretary of State Cord Byrd. “And today, just as in President Monroe’s era, our state continues to play an important role leading the rest of the nation. We are the free state of Florida.”
The unveiling ceremony occurred on the final day of George Washington’s Birthday Weekend, which provided free entry for all Floridians to state lands, including state parks, as part of the state’s ongoing semiquincentennial celebration. Further activities will continue to be announced over the coming months.
“Through this statue series and our ‘all-in’ commitment to America’s 250th, Florida is setting a national precedent for reigniting patriotism and civic life,” said Bryan Griffin, President and CEO of VISIT FLORIDA. “By bringing these founders back into the public square, we are highlighting their contributions and inviting everyone to come celebrate America in Florida.”
Floridians can find information on events, exhibits, heritage sites, and participation opportunities at America250FL.com, the state’s official hub for the Semiquincentennial celebration.
