Replica of Baltimore's Columbus Statue Placed at White House

The original sculpture was dumped into the harbor in 2020 amid civil unrest over police violence.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 9:20pm

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A replica of the Christopher Columbus statue that was dumped into Baltimore's harbor in 2020 has been placed on the grounds of the White House, according to reports. The 13-foot replica was built by father and son Tilghman and Will Hemsley using pieces retrieved from the harbor. The original statue was removed amid civil unrest sparked by the deaths of George Floyd and other Black people by police.

Why it matters

The Columbus statue has long been a symbol of pride and cultural identity for Italian Americans, but its removal in 2020 highlighted ongoing debates over the legacy of Columbus and his treatment of indigenous peoples. The placement of the replica at the White House is seen as an effort to recognize the Italian American community's attachment to the statue.

The details

The replica was gifted to the White House by the Conference of Presidents of Major Italian American Organizations. Tilghman Hemsley, the creator of the statue, said they had the replica ready for about three years and were waiting to hear where it would be placed. Basil Russo, president of the organization, said the statue's restoration was important for recognizing Columbus Day's creation as an attempt to promote Italian acceptance following the lynching of Italians in New Orleans in 1891.

  • The original Columbus statue was dumped into Baltimore's harbor in 2020.
  • The replica was completed in 2022.
  • The replica was placed on the White House grounds on Sunday.

The players

Tilghman Hemsley

The creator of the replica Columbus statue.

Will Hemsley

Tilghman Hemsley's son, who helped construct the replica.

Basil Russo

President of the Conference of Presidents of Major Italian American Organizations, which gifted the statue to the White House.

Christopher Columbus

The historical figure whose statue was the subject of controversy and whose legacy is debated.

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What they’re saying

“We've had it ready for about three years now. I haven't had any official notice to do anything with it yet. At this point, we're waiting to hear where it's going to go.”

— Tilghman Hemsley, Creator of the statue

“Columbus statues have long stood as symbols of pride and cultural identity for more than 18 million Americans of Italian descent. For over a century, Columbus's legacy helped Italian immigrants navigate prejudice and hardship, serving as a source of unity and belonging as they built new lives in this country.”

— Basil Russo, President of the Conference of Presidents of Major Italian American Organizations

“Christopher Columbus was the original American hero and one of the most gallant and visionary men to ever walk the face of the Earth. I am truly honored that this magnificent statue will now sit on the grounds of the White House.”

— Donald Trump

What’s next

The White House has not confirmed a timeline or formal approval for the placement of the Columbus statue replica on its grounds.

The takeaway

The placement of the Columbus statue replica at the White House highlights the ongoing debate over the legacy of the historical figure and the cultural significance of such monuments for Italian Americans, even as critics have condemned Columbus' treatment of indigenous peoples.