Gov. Ron DeSantis unveiled a statue of President James Monroe near Bahia Honda State Park as part of America’s upcoming 250th birthday and the state celebration of George Washington’s birthday (Presidents' Day) during a press conference in Monroe County this week.
James Monroe was America's 5th president from 1817 to 1825. Monroe County, his namesake and home to the Florida Keys, was founded in 1823.
A founding father, Monroe's legacy includes securing Florida from Spain in part of the Adams-Onís Treaty of 1819. He also delivered the Monroe Doctrine, which established American leadership over further European colonization in 1823.
“In recognition of his contributions to our country, I was proud to unveil the statue of President James Monroe near Bahia Honda State Park in Monroe County today,” DeSantis said. “In Florida, we honor our nation’s history, celebrate those who made our country great, and strive to pass down their legacy of civic virtue to the next generation.”
Monroe also served in the Revolutionary War as an officer in the Continental Army. He later would become Secretary of State and Secretary of War during the War of 1812, before his presidency.
His statue is the latest initiative by Gov. DeSantis as part of America 250, which commemorates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, culminating on July 4, 2026.
Last July, Gov. DeSantis unveiled a statue of former President Thomas Jefferson in Jefferson County. The governor also put up a statue of Benjamin Franklin, also one of America's founding fathers, in Franklin County in September 2025.
In addition, a statue of former President George Washington is on display in the rotunda of the Florida Capitol building in Tallahassee.
"Through this statue series and our 'all-in' commitment to America's 250th, Florida is setting a national precedent for reigniting patriotism and civic life," said Bryan Griffin, President and CEO of VISIT FLORIDA. "By bringing these founders back into the public square, we are highlighting their contributions and inviting everyone to come celebrate America in Florida."
