Events

FDR Memorial Foundation Funds FDR Memorial Artwork Cleaning & Restoration

 The FDR Memorial Foundation has been supporting recent improvements at the FDR Memorial.

The Foundation engaged object conservator Russell Bernabo to clean and stabilize the patina—the colored surface of a bronze sculpture that is part of the artist's vision—on three pieces of art at the Memorial: The FDR wheelchair statue and text panel featuring Eleanor Roosevelt’s quotation about FDR’s disability, both by Robert Graham; and the Presidential Seal by Tom Hardy.

Bernabo performed this work in late April 2026 in time for the commemoration of the 25th anniversary of the FDR Memorial’s completion and the addition of the FDR wheelchair statue to be held on May 13, 2026 at the Memorial.  

The Foundation’s contribution to the Memorial’s upkeep reflects the historic public-private cooperation that have built and maintained America’s national parks and memorials. Foundation leaders aim to dedicate additional resources in the future to support the Memorial’s upkeep, and fund maintenance and preservation work. 

The organization would like to continue to clean and restore the artwork throughout the Memorial.  Best practice is for the artwork to be cleaned at least once a year.  Please donate to help support this effort.