John Paul Jones Memorial

John Paul Jones Memorial at the intersection of 17th & Independence Ave.

Quick Facts

Location:

Washington, DC

Significance:

Revolutionary War naval hero

Amenities

1 listed

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits

John Paul Jones, a Scottish-born sailor, was an American naval hero famed for his capture of the British HMS Serapis during the Revolutionary War, and for the phrase, "I have not yet begun to fight!" To access the memorial, use the crosswalks to approach from the west side of 17th street, nearest the WWII Memorial.

Sculptor: Charles Niehaus

Inscriptions

John Paul Jones
1747. 1792.
FIRST
TO COMPEL FOREIGN
MAN OF WAR
TO STRIKE COLORS
TO THE STARS AND STRIPES
Beneath bas relief
In Life He Honored the Flag. In Death the Flag Shall Honor Him.
On both sides of the inscription is a design of a military helmet with floral top sitting amongst swords, hatchets, and tridents.
back
Surrender?
I Have Not Yet Begun to Fight!