Independent Man Restoration Project

It was during the RI State House Cleaning Project that the DCAMM team discovered the damage sustained to the dome on which the Independent Man stands requiring the removal of the 1400lbs. 14’ tall iconic statue. The historical Independent Man has stood watch over the State House grounds for over 125 years. 

The 250-ton crane carefully positioned and calibrated, lowered Rhode Island’s iconic statue from his 278 ‘high pedestal.  Carefully maneuvering it through the air with extreme precision.  DCAMM’s team took every precaution to ensure the safety of the statue, the crane operators, and the surrounding area.

The Independent Man’s restoration process is currently underway.  Restoration work will include a thorough cleaning of the statue, re- electroplating the areas of corrosion and damage due to weathering and finally, the gilding of the entire statue with 23.75 carat gold leaf.