By: Harold Sanford Carter III
In the heart of Portland Maine there is a statue made of bronze that watches over the city. The statue is a deity of war, wisdom, arts, trade, and defense. She is Roman and equal to the Greek goddess Athena. Her name is Minerva. She occupies Monument square and is the
heirloom to the fallen soldiers and sailors of the civil war. She is the mother of Portland.
The guardian of the fallen and a token of thanks to the bravest men the state of Maine has ever seen.
Richard Morris Hunt built the pedestal she stands on in 1891. He was born in Brattleboro, Vermont on October 31st, 1827 and died on July 31st, 1895. Richard was one of the greatest architects of his time. The pedestal of the statue of liberty was built with his very hands. Conversely, the statue was constructed by another man by the name of Franklin Bachelder Simmons. Frank was born in Webster Maine on January 11th, 1839 and died on December 8th, 1913. Indeed only a Mainer would have the right to make such a relic for the fallen warriors of Portland.
Before the statue was erected Monument square was called Market square. Kimball Clapp City hall stood there at this time. Only in time would Minerva demolish city hall and widen the square with her ancient power and blessing.
Minerva was born from the godhead of Jupiter with a sword in her hand. Minerva in ancient imagery usually is seen with an owl. This is a reference that suggests Minerva was a deity of much wisdom. Maine is not alone with the fascination of Minerva. The seal of California used her imagery during the political birth of that state. Further, The highest medal issued by the United States government displays her imagery. The medal of honor!
Minerva is a Pagan iconic figure. In a Christian dominated society it is fascinating to see how important she is even in modern times. Most importantly she is what is left of the memory of the fallen hero’s of the people that lost their lives fighting in the civil war. The spirit of Minerva was with the north. She watches the living and comforts our hero’s. May we remember the hero’s of Portland. Minerva was placed in the heart of Portland to remember them. If you find yourself at monument square be sure to heed the understanding and ultimate sacrifice of life. liberty and freedom is what was given by our warriors. They were led by Minerva.
The only civil war battle fought in Maine was the battle of Portland harbor in June of 1863. Southern raiders triggered the battle after seizing two non military vessels while trying to escape to the ocean. The raiders never made their escape.
