In a remarkable tribute to President-elect Donald Trump, a significantly larger-than-life bronze statue is taking shape, inspired by his fearless response during an assassination attempt at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, last July. This striking two-story statue aims to encapsulate Trump’s courage as he emerged bloodied yet defiant, energizing his supporters by pumping his fist and rallying them with cries of “Fight!” right after the shooting incident. The statue’s unveiling is eagerly anticipated during Trump’s inauguration, with supporters of the project hopeful it will serve as a powerful symbol of resilience and determination.
The initiative for this statue, referred to as the “Patriot Statue,” is funded by crypto enthusiasts and spearheaded by Ohio artist Alan Cottrill, who is known for his previous work creating statues of prominent figures, including several U.S. presidents. Cottrill has noted that this is the largest sculpture he has ever undertaken. He expressed the gravity of the project, emphasizing its scale and the impactful nature of the events it commemorates. The artist is currently working on creating a clay mold from which individual bronze components will be sculpted before they are welded and polished into the final statue. The completion of this monumental piece is projected to coincide with the New Year, just in time for the planned inauguration presentation.
The artistic vision behind the statue exemplifies Trump’s larger-than-life persona, as described by project leader Dustin Stockton. He has discussed logistics for showcasing the statue at the inauguration with members of the Inaugural Committee. Following its debut, the statue will embark on a cross-country tour, intended to share its message more broadly before it eventually finds a permanent home at the Trump Presidential Library. Stockton suggests that this journey and the statue itself symbolize an effort to immortalize the pivotal moments of contemporary political history.
Discussions are underway regarding the statue’s eventual placement in Butler, the site of the rally. While the Butler Farm Show grounds are a potential location, the decision lies with the venue’s board of directors, as it is private property. Local officials, including Butler County Board of Commissioner Vice Chair Kim Geyer, have expressed optimism about its placement in Butler as a tourist attraction. Geyer highlighted how the statue could stimulate local tourism by drawing visitors interested in the historical significance of the location—a sentiment echoed by local residents and officials who view the statue as not only a commemorative piece but also an opportunity for economic revitalization for the county.
Community sentiment toward the statue’s potential impact reflects broader perceptions of Trump’s influence and his policies, particularly in the cryptocurrency realm. Local and state officials have discussed not only the sentimental and historical value of the statue but also its prospective economic benefits. The anticipation of increased tourism is palpable, with local leaders believing that visitors would support local businesses, thus providing a much-needed boost to the area’s economy. Supporters view this commemorative effort as turning a traumatic event into something that symbolizes resilience and hope.
In addition to the monumental statue, there are plans to create ten smaller bronze replicas, each standing at 18 inches tall and intended for individuals who have made significant contributions to the Make America Great Again movement. Prized as “Patriot Awards,” these smaller figures will also be presented at a ceremony prior to the inauguration. This comprehensive project not only seeks to honor Trump’s legacy but also aims to engage and inspire the community, further solidifying the connection between the event in Butler and the ongoing narrative of resilience that the statue aims to celebrate. As both a historical marker and a symbol of the enduring spirit, the Patriot Statue is poised to leave a lasting imprint on the community and the nation.