Workers have made a correction to a carving of Frederick Douglass at the NYS Capitol in Albany.
The Great Western Staircase, as it’s called, is known for its elaborate stone carving, and it includes 77 famous faces carved in it. Frederick Douglass is the only African American represented there.
But the name of the famed abolitionist was misspelled with just one ‘s’ in his last name instead of two.
Governor Andrew Cuomo says the carving has been fixed now with the correct spelling.
Cuomo noted Douglass’ impact on the state and the nation and its important his memory lives on accurately. "The ideals he advocated for nearly 200 years ago are especially relevant in today's discourse, as we continue the fight for true equality for all, regardless of race or gender, and focus on what unites us instead of what divides us," Cuomo said.
Douglass lived for many years in Rochester, publishing his anti-slavery newspaper, The North Star, and he is buried at Mt. Hope Cemetery.
The Great Western Staircase was carved between 1884 and 1898 and it depicts historic figures as well as animals, gothic creatures, intricate geometric and floral designs, patriotic symbols, family crests and Civil War medals.
