ICYMI: Governor Ron DeSantis Unveils Statue Honoring “Father of our Country” George Washington in Washington County and Announces Further Statewide America250FL Initiatives

TALLAHASSEE, FLA. –

Today, Governor Ron DeSantis unveiled a new statue honoring the American Cincinnatus, General George Washington, in Washington County, continuing Florida’s commemoration of the nation’s 250th anniversary and recognizing Washington’s role as America’s “indispensable man.” The governor also announced the launch of the Florida Freedom Tour, a Mobile History Museum initiative designed to bring Florida’s history directly to communities across the state.

“Nobody was more consequential in establishing our nation than George Washington,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “Today in Chipley, I was proud to unveil a new statue of Washington in the Florida county that bears his name. We honor Washington as the embodiment of civic virtue, and we will continue working to ensure that future generations embrace America’s founding principles.”

"George Washington’s example of principled leadership and service before self continues to guide our nation’s civic virtue," said Florida Secretary of State Cord Byrd. "This statue will serve as a reminder for generations to come of the duty, responsibility, and the public service we owe to our country."

"The father of our country takes his rightful place in Washington County as part of Florida's Founding Father statue series, celebrating America 250," said President & CEO of VISIT FLORIDA Bryan Griffin. "With these monuments, many other historic landmarks, and dozens of big events planned, Florida is the perfect place to celebrate our nation's 250th birthday."

General George Washington, often referred to as the “Father of Our Country,” led American forces to victory during the Revolutionary War and later set enduring precedents for the presidency, including the peaceful transfer of power. His voluntary decision to relinquish authority cemented his legacy as a model of servant leadership. This statue, located in Chipley, serves as a tribute to Washington’s leadership as commander-in-chief of the Continental Army and as the nation’s first president. It is the ninth installation in a statewide initiative to place statues of Founding Fathers in counties bearing their names.

 Florida Freedom Tour Brings History to All 67 Counties
In conjunction with the unveiling, state leaders also announced the launch of the Florida Freedom Tour, a Mobile History Museum initiative designed to bring Florida’s history directly to communities across the state. 

Beginning May 1 and running through August 1, the tour will feature two repurposed 18-wheelers transformed into traveling museums, showcasing exhibits and artifacts from the Museum of Florida History.

The mobile museums will:

• Travel to all 67 counties across Florida
• Visit schools, community events, and major gatherings 

Provide interactive exhibits highlighting Florida’s role in American history before and after 1776.

Florida also announced the upcoming release of “America 250: A Portrait of Florida,” a seven-episode docuseries highlighting key locations and moments that have shaped both the state and the nation. The series will feature destinations including St. Augustine, Pensacola, Tallahassee, Cape Canaveral, Tampa, Key West, Miami, and the Everglades.
 
About America 250 Florida

Today’s unveiling is part of Florida’s broader initiative to honor the individuals who shaped our nation over the past 250 years and to preserve America’s civic pride and heritage for future generations. Florida has led the way in establishing monuments to influential leaders, including statues of Founding Fathers such as Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, and George Washington, as well as more recent figures like Ronald Reagan, Frederick Douglass, and Calvin Coolidge.

America 250 Florida marks the state’s official observance of America’s semiquincentennial and will host and help sponsor special events throughout the year for Floridians from all corners of the state to enjoy. Floridians can find information on events, exhibits, heritage sites, and participation opportunities at America250FL.com, the state’s official hub for the Semiquincentennial celebration.