Statue of Thomas Ingersoll: Symbols and Meanings

Sculptor Neil Cox explained some of the visual symbols which are incorporated into the statue of Thomas Ingersoll.

Thomas Ingersoll is portrayed wearing boots and a coat, signifying his rank as Major in the Massachusetts militia. The scroll in his hand represents the land grant he received. He is looking out on the site, contemplating the work ahead and the hopes of the settlers. The pick axe and split log post indicate the important activity of road building. The parfleche containing corn seed is symbolic of the native contribution, particularly the role played by Joseph Brant.

At Ingersoll's foot is a wooden chest. This is decorated with an image of his wife, symbolic of his family, and of the often-forgotten role of spouses and family members of staunch patriarchs. Inside the chest are small carved wooden symbols. The book of scripture represents our spiritual foundations. The piece of cheese signifies agriculture and farming. The wrench symbolizes industry, including labourers and managers. The badge indicates authority of all kinds, including government, police, fire, ambulance services, and veterans. The pencil represents education. The quill pen symbolizes merchants, clerical workers, civil servants, lawyers, and accountants. The medicine bottle represents health care.

The symbols were displayed on the base of the statue during the dedication. After the ceremony, the symbols were sealed inside the wooden chest. The symbols have been hidden as a powerful way of showing that history is hidden; it cannot be re-lived, but must be remembered. History will affect us for good and ill, but we must be aware of it if we are to grapple effectively with these forces. The last mystery of the chest is what will come out of it, the future. That is up to all of us.

The back of the statue can be viewed from inside the library. Library visitors should look on the back of the tree to see a frog, a squirrel, and the carved initials of Laura Ingersoll and James Secord.

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