Archbishop John Carroll Statue, Washington D.C.

The statue of Archbishop John Carroll, located on the Georgetown University campus, stands as a tribute to the founder of the institution and the first Catholic bishop in the United States. Created by Irish sculptor Jerome Connor, the bronze sculpture depicts Carroll seated in a chair, gazing thoughtfully towards the front gates of the university and the Potomac River beyond. His right hand holds a book, symbolizing his dedication to education and knowledge, with his index finger marking a page.

The design of the statue, with its detailed depiction of Carroll and the inclusion of a stack of books beneath his chair, draws inspiration from the John Harvard statue at Harvard University. Dressed in Jesuit ecclesiastical attire, Carroll's serene and contemplative expression reflects his pivotal role in establishing Georgetown University with the support of a grant from George Washington.

Behind the statue of Archbishop Carroll is Healy Hall, an iconic building named after Patrick Healy, S.J., the first African American president of a non-historically black college or university.

Unveiled in 1912 during an elaborate three-day ceremony, the statue has since become an integral part of Georgetown University's landscape. The unveiling event attracted thousands of attendees, including high-ranking clergy, members of Congress, judges, and distinguished alumni. Positioned on a circular lawn known as Healy Circle, the statue not only commemorates Carroll's legacy but also serves as a focal point for student life and campus traditions. Over the years, students have engaged in various lighthearted activities involving the statue, including the enduring tradition of sitting in the archbishop's lap.