Beneath a 23-foot bronze statue holding the Declaration of Independence, Matthew Taylor stops beside another monument that many may not recognize. Caesar Rodney may not be a household name, but his significance in American history is profound. During an exclusive tour of the Spirit of ’76 exhibition at Freedom Plaza, Taylor reveals why Rodney deserves gratitude.

This temporary exhibition celebrates America’s 250th anniversary by transforming Freedom Plaza into a gallery. It honors Revolutionary War figures often overlooked in textbooks. Commissioned by President Donald Trump, the exhibition features 22 statues, including a restored Caesar Rodney monument, a Spirit of Liberty sculpture, and memorials for Americans who perished during the Revolution.

Rodney, known for his daring ride to cast Delaware’s decisive vote for independence in 1776, is the focal point of the installation. Despite severe illness, Rodney rode 80 miles through a storm to ensure Delaware’s vote supported independence. This act of bravery helps secure Rodney’s place in American lore.

For decades, the statue of Rodney stood in Wilmington’s Rodney Square. Removed in 2020, it now occupies a key location at Freedom Plaza near the White House and Capitol. Around Rodney’s ride, visitors explore more bronze sculptures.

The bronze figures depict 12 ordinary soldiers of the Revolution. These statues pay tribute to everyday citizens that took extraordinary actions. Among them, Samuel Whittemore fought at age 78, surviving brutal attacks, while Simon Knowles enlisted at 15 to serve with George Washington.

Another installation is the Prison Ship Martyrs memorial, representing a tragedy where nearly 12,000 Americans died before the war ended. The memorial’s design allows visitors to walk through, simulating the cramped ship spaces.

Above the exhibition, the Spirit of Liberty stands tall. Holding the Declaration and a raised sword, this figure reflects iconic American monuments and looks forward to the future. At its base, reliefs show pivotal Revolutionary events—signing of the Declaration, Washington’s Delaware crossing, and Yorktown’s British surrender.

The Spirit of ’76 exhibition at Freedom Plaza is free, inviting all to reflect on the nation’s founding through lesser-known heroes and events. It’s designed to inspire visitors to achieve extraordinary things themselves, echoing the spirit of the colonial generation.