Washington Square Arch: “Let Us Raise a Standard to Which the Wise and Honest Can Repair”

The Arch George Washington quote Washington Square Park
Words attributed to George Washington on the Arch are from the 1797 U.S. Constitutional Convention – but some dispute he said them

Updated At the top of the 125 year old Arch at Washington Square Park is, appropriately, a quote from George Washington, for whom the monument is named. It reads: “Let Us Raise a Standard to Which the Wise and Honest Can Repair. The event is in the hand of God.” – Washington

I can’t recall if I ever analyzed the intended meaning of this quote at the blog. I believe it references war … am I right?*

I would like to see a bit more “honesty” from those running the park, yes?

Officially, the structure is named Washington Arch and it marks 125 years (thereabouts) this year.

*Update: No, apparently I am not right. Commenter Richard wrote:

The quote is in reference to the U.S. Constitution at the opening of the Constitutional Convention on May 25 1787, but there’s some question as to whether or not Washington actually said it. See the “Disputed” section at this page: https://en.wikiquote.org/wiki/George_Washington#Disputed

This George Washington Disputed Wikipedia page states:

    • Americans! let the opinion then delivered by the greatest and best of men, be ever present to your remembrance. He was collected within himself. His countenance had more than usual solemnity; his, eye was fixed, and seemed to look into futurity. “It is (said he) too probable that no plan we propose will be adopted. Perhaps another dreadful conflict is to be sustained. If to please the people, we offer what we ourselves disapprove, how can we afterwards defend our work? Let us raise a standard to which the wise and the honest can repair. The event is in the hand of God.” This was the patriot voice of Washington; and this the constant tenor of his conduct. With this deep sense of duty, he gave to our Constitution his cordial assent; and has added the fame of a legislator to that of a hero.

Richard added, “That said, even if he didn’t say the words, they were strongly associated with Washington and not out of place on the Arch.”

Great information. Thanks, Richard.

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I love this photo.

Photo: Cathryn

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3 thoughts on “Washington Square Arch: “Let Us Raise a Standard to Which the Wise and Honest Can Repair””

  1. The quote is in reference to the U.S. Constitution at the opening of the Constitutional Convention on May 25 1787, but there’s some question as to whether or not Washington actually said it. See the “Disputed” section at this page:

    https://en.wikiquote.org/wiki/George_Washington#Disputed

    That said, even if he didn’t say the words, they were strongly associated with Washington and not out of place on the Arch.

    Reply
  2. Hi Richard,

    That is so interesting. So glad you commented and added this information. I have updated the post. Thanks so much!

    Cathryn

    Reply
  3. I would still like a learned commentor’s interpretation of these words. Is the General setting up the need for amendments and the living document ?

    Reply

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