Emma Sansom Statue, Gadsden Travel Guide

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A tribute to Civil War bravery, the Emma Sansom Statue stands as a Gadsden landmark, sparking conversation about history and heritage.

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Emma Sansom Statue

The Emma Sansom Statue in downtown Gadsden commemorates a local teenage heroine who guided Confederate General Nathan Bedford Forrest to a key river crossing during the Civil War. The statue, erected in 1907, depicts Emma Sansom pointing the way, forever immortalizing her contribution to Confederate efforts in the region.

A brief summary to Emma Sansom Statue

81-99 Broad St, Gadsden, Alabama, 35901, US

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Emma Sansom Statue.

Visit during First Friday events (April-October) for a lively downtown atmosphere with classic cars, food vendors, and live entertainment.
Check out nearby attractions such as the Gadsden Museum of Art and the Mary G. Hardin Center for Cultural Arts.
Parking is typically free in the Regions Bank parking lot across the street, but always check for posted signs.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Gadsden Downtown Historic District

Gadsden Monument

Central Carver Legacy Museum

Forrest Cemetery Chapel and Comfort Station

Greetings from Gadsden, AL (mural)

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Getting There

Walking

The Emma Sansom Statue is located in downtown Gadsden on Broad Street. If you're already downtown, walking is a convenient option. From the Mary G. Hardin Center for Cultural Arts, walk south on Broad Street for a few blocks. The statue is easily visible on the west side of the street. There are no costs associated with walking.
Public Transport

The Gadsden Trolley System operates routes in the city. Check the trolley schedule to see if a route passes near your location and the Emma Sansom Statue. The trolley fare is $1.00 per ride. Some routes may require a short walk from the nearest stop to the statue.
Driving

If driving, navigate to Broad Street in downtown Gadsden. The statue is located between 1st and 2nd Streets. Limited street parking is available, and there is a parking lot across the street from Regions Bank. Parking is typically free, but check for any posted signs.

Discover more about Emma Sansom Statue

The Emma Sansom Statue, prominently located on Broad Street in Gadsden, Alabama, stands as a tribute to the courageous actions of Emma Sansom during the Civil War. In May 1863, at the age of 15, Emma guided Confederate General Nathan Bedford Forrest across Black Creek, enabling him to capture Union Colonel Abel Streight and his raiding party. This act secured her place in local history as a symbol of bravery and resourcefulness.The monument features a life-sized white marble statue of Emma Sansom dressed in period attire. She is depicted with her right arm outstretched, pointing towards the location of the Black Creek ford. The statue rests on a granite pedestal adorned with a marble relief showing Emma guiding Forrest on horseback. The monument marks the entrance to the Memorial Bridge, which was opened in 1927 and dedicated to the Etowah County World War I heroes.The statue's design reflects the Lost Cause ideology prevalent at the time of its construction. While the story of Emma Sansom has been celebrated for generations, it's important to acknowledge the complexities and controversies surrounding the monument. Some view it as a symbol of Southern heritage, while others criticize it for glorifying the Confederacy and perpetuating harmful stereotypes. Despite differing perspectives, the Emma Sansom Statue remains a significant landmark in Gadsden, attracting visitors who come to learn about her story and its historical context.