Smithsonian Magazine · People & society

Arson Investigation Launched After Vandalism Destroys New Benjamin Harrison Statue

Police are investigating a suspected arson incident that completely destroyed a newly installed, life-size statue of President Benjamin Harrison at the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site in Indianapolis. The fire was reported in the early morning hours of September 27.

Firefighters responded to the blaze on a pedestrian path but could not save the statue, which had been installed less than two weeks prior. Site staff found only the statue's internal armature remaining.

Officials described the incident as a "senseless act of vandalism." The statue, made of fire-resistant polymer, is a total loss, and investigators believe arson is the only plausible explanation for its destruction.

The statue, a collaboration between the presidential site and the Herron School of Art + Design, was 3D-printed by students and faculty over more than 1,200 hours and was valued at approximately $8,500.

This public art installation was intended to be the first in a new initiative to engage the community with history through artifacts and 3D technology. It was planned to be on display for a year.

The presidential site has initiated a crowdfunding campaign to replace the statue, with goals to reprint the original and potentially cast a bronze version.

Plans are already underway for next year's art installation, inspired by First Lady Caroline Harrison. Site officials are considering more durable materials for future pieces to prevent similar incidents.

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