Installation and Dedication
On October 31, 1911 construction, which was supervised by A. W. Taylor of J.C. Robinson & Son, began and the piece was installed from March–June 1912.
The Knights of Columbus headed up the dedication ceremony on June 8, 1912. It was estimated that at least 150,000 people were expected to attend the opening. Congress supplied an extra $6,000 for expanded police security, with the Knights requesting at least 500 officers to participate. $10,000 was contributed by the Knights of Columbus for the event decorations, supplies and general planning.
The Knights planned an entire weekend around the dedication ceremony. Friday, June 7, Knights of Columbus from around the world gathered in Washington, first visiting the tomb of George Washington at Mount Vernon, following by an evening reception in Washington.
The day of the reception, Saturday, a parade was planned to feature between 80,000 to 85,000 participants. General Robert K. Evans, Chief of Military Affairs, served as the parade marshal, riding at the front of 15,000 troops from the Navy and Marines. Knights of Columbus representatives, upwards of 50,000, encompassed the second part of the parade. Parade floats followed behind, each drawn by six horses, followed by people dressed in "knightly costumes". Float themes included "The Departure of Columbus," and "Columbus Soliciting Aid from the Court of Spain," followed by 2,000 cars. President Taft overlooked the parade from the stands.
The unveiling of the art work was presided over by then Secretary of State Philander Knox with invocation given by Rector Thomas Shahan. Other notable participants included Chief Justice Victor J. Dowling, Italian Ambassador Cusania Confalonieri, James McCreary, Archbishop Bonzano, and other Catholic church notables. President Taft also provided the formal address. Saturday evening a ball was held at the convention center, again attended by President Taft and other prominent figures.
Sunday, June 9, Spanish war veterans assembled at the Washington Monument for mass with Cardinal James Gibbons and Archbishop Bonzano. An estimated 10,000 people were believed to attend the mass. A final evening event was held at the convention center featuring the US Marine Corps Band.
Read more about this topic: Columbus Fountain
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