The John H. Reagan Monument by Pompeo Coppini was unveiled in 1911 in Palestine, Texas.
Known as the “Old Roman,” John Reagan served roles in Texas state government as well as both the US Federal and southern Confederacy governments. The bronze statue depicts the Texas stateman in typical 19th century clothes preparing to speak. Below Reagan on a lower platform is a smaller bronze statue of a Roman soldier as a symbol of the Confederacy.
Inscribed on the granite east side of the base is “The Old Roman’s highest ambition was to do his full duty. Consciousness of having done it was his ample reward.” On the west side Reagan is quoted, “A good name is to be chosen than great riches, and loving favor rather than silver and gold.”
The photos and description of the John H. Reagan Monument in Palestine, TX are part of materials from its registration form for the National Register of Historic Places.
