Documenting the American South

Commemorative Landscapes of North Carolina
Commemorative Landscapes of North Carolina
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  • Monument Name

    Martin Luther Statue, Lenoir-Rhyne University, Hickory

  • Type

    Statue

  • Subjects

    Historic Religious Figures

  • Creator

    Jon Hair, Sculptor

  • City

    Hickory

  • County

    Catawba

  • Description

    The gray granite statue is said to be one of the world’s largest of Martin Luther, weighing in at 14,000 lbs. and 12-feet tall. The figure is wearing an academic gown and scholars cap circa the 16th century. Luther is holding a book against his chest with his proper left hand. The right hand is at waist level holding a partially unrolled scroll and his head is tilted slightly upward towards his left. The statue stands on a red brick base with a concrete top and recessed lighting.

  • Inscription

    Base: MARTIN LUTHER

  • Custodian

    Lenoir-Rhyne University

  • Dedication Date

    October 9, 2010

  • Decade

    2010s

  • Geographic Coordinates

    35.740170 , -81.326110 View in Geobrowsemap pin

  • Supporting Sources

      Frick, Alex. "Light of Grace: Chapel rises at Lenoir-Rhyne University," HickoryRecord. com, Jun 11, 2014, (accessed May 6, 2017) Link

      “Alumnus Shares Stories of Success in Quarterly Newsletter,” Columbus College of Art & Design, (accessed April 20, 2017) Link

      “Luther Statue to Arrive on Monday!,” Leniorrhynean blog, (accessed April 20, 2017) Link

      “Martin Luther, Jon Hair Monument Sculpture," jonhair.com, (accessed April 20, 2017) Link

  • Public Site

    Yes

  • Materials & Techniques

    Granite statue on a concrete and brick base.

  • Sponsors

    The statue was a gift from Charlotte philanthropist Irwin Belk, who previously donated nine bronze statues of athletes to Lenoir-Rhyne University.

  • Subject Notes

    As a priest and theological professor, Luther confronted Roman Catholic doctrine with his “Ninety-Five Theses” in 1517, resulting in his excommunication four years later. His translation of the Bible into the language of the people instead of Latin made it more accessible. His teaching launched the Protestant Reformation, profoundly influenced German culture and created the Lutheran Church.

  • Location

    The statue stands in front of Grace Chapel on the campus of Lenoir-Rhyne University, at 625 7th Ave NE, Hickory, NC 28601.

  • Landscape

    The statue stands on the front lawn of the church, surrounded by flowers and seasonal plants.

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