VC Bird Monument: A Tribute to Antigua's Founding Father

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A vibrant tribute to Sir Vere Cornwall Bird, Antigua and Barbuda's first Prime Minister, symbolizing the nation's journey to independence.

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VC Bird Monument

The VC Bird Monument in St. John's stands as a vibrant tribute to Sir Vere Cornwall Bird, Antigua and Barbuda's first Prime Minister, who led the nation to independence. The monument features a colorful bust of Bird alongside a black pineapple, symbolizing the island's unique identity.

A brief summary to VC Bird Monument

4594+5CQ, Valley Rd, St John's, AG

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photographs and fewer crowds.
Take time to read the informational plaques near the monument to learn more about Sir VC Bird's contributions to Antigua and Barbuda.
Combine your visit with a stroll through the surrounding area, including the public market, to experience the local culture.

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Getting There

Walking

If you are in St. John's city center, the VC Bird Monument is easily accessible on foot. Head towards Valley Road, and you'll find the monument situated at a prominent intersection near the public market. The walk is approximately 20 minutes from the city center. Be mindful of traffic as you approach the monument.
Public Transport

To reach the VC Bird Monument via public transportation, take a local bus or minibus heading towards St John's. Buses operate from the East and West Bus Stations in St. John's. Ask the driver to drop you off at Valley Road near the monument. The bus fare is typically around EC$2.50 - EC$5.00 (US$1.00 - US$2.00). From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the monument.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Antigua. A taxi from V.C. Bird International Airport (ANU) to St. John's is approximately US$7. From the airport, the taxi ride to the monument is about 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxis in Antigua do not use meters; fares are fixed. Ensure the driver keeps a copy of the rates inside the vehicle.

Discover more about VC Bird Monument

The VC Bird Monument, prominently situated in St. John's, is a powerful symbol of national pride, honoring Sir Vere Cornwall Bird, the first Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda. Born in St. John's in 1910, V.C. Bird played a pivotal role in guiding the nation from a British colony to an independent state, serving as Prime Minister from 1981 to 1994. The monument itself is a striking sculpture, installed in 2002, three years after Bird's death. Designed by Cuban artist Andres Gonzalez, the brightly colored bust stands approximately 10 meters (33 feet) tall and depicts Bird in a suit with his hand placed on his chest. Adjacent to the statue is a black pineapple, a fruit unique to the island and considered a local delicacy. The monument is located in a small, triangular plaza at a busy intersection in downtown St. John's, next to the public market. Although the plaza is closed to the public, the monument can be easily viewed from the railings. The surrounding area is well-maintained, providing ample opportunities for photography. The monument serves as a focal point for cultural gatherings and celebrations, embodying the spirit of Antigua and Barbuda.