Statue #43: George W. Bush
Rapid City, South Dakota
This bronze statue was unveiled in 2010, barely a year after George W. Bush (2001-2009) left office and in the thick of the Great Recession. America's 43rd President may have been a controversial figure, but Bush is smiling, right arm outstretched to imagined onlookers, giving a thumbs-up as if everything is great, or will be eventually. Sculptor James Michael Maher made the statue even more likable by having Bush hold his cuddly pet terrier, Barney, under his arm. According to the statue's official description, Barney was "best known for biting a reporter."
Because the statue stands in front of a fast food restaurant sign, photos of thumbs-up Bush suggest that he's endorsing whatever menu item is currently being promoted, such as "Chicken Tender Combo" or "Garlicbread Thickburger."
Amazing Arcana of the Presidents
Bush is the only President who's had shoes thrown at his head (he ducked), and whose previous experience included running a baseball team.
[Discover more fascinating details in the Roadside Presidents iPhone app!]
City of Presidents
Since 2000, Rapid City has commissioned and installed bronze statues of every former U.S. President on its downtown street corners. Visitors are encouraged to take a walking tour of the City of Presidents and inspect the nation's metallic Commanders in Chief. Paper guides are available year-round at the city's main Visitor Center at 512 Main St.