Kanawha County resident petitions to nationally honor Henry statue

ST. ALBANS, W.Va. — A Kanawha County resident would like to see President Obama recognize the statue of John Henry in Summers County as a national monument.

Robert Thompson of Upper Falls says that the statue in Talcott deserves recognition as a national monument, something that West Virginia currently doesn’t have.

“John Henry is probably the most famous African-American laborer in history,” Thompson said. “He made such an incredible contribution to society it’s just a shame he hasn’t been honored for his contribution to humanity with a monument.”

Thompson said that his petition needs 150 signatures to get on the front page of the White House website. So far, his idea hasn’t picked up the head of steam he was hoping for.

“I’ve been disappointed by that. I notified all the media across the state when I put the petition up,” he said. “I haven’t had the response from other media which has been disappointing.”

Thompson talked about the famous legend in which John Henry’s steel-driving prowess was measured against a steam powered hammer, which is why he thought the monument should be in Summers County.

“That’s the location of the Twin Tunnels, where the famous race of John Henry against the steam powered drill took place,” he said.

The historical accuracy of many aspects of the John Henry legend is subject to debate. Several locations have been listed as the tunnel on which Henry died.





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