VC Bird Monument Travel Guide

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.