Famous Fathers and Their Memorials
We searched far and wide for the most famous fathers
in the world and how we memorialized them.
HAPPY FATHERS DAY!
Famous Fathers and Their Memorials
Emperor Kangxi (1653 to 1722) – The longest reigning and most successful Emperor in China’s history also had the most children. Father to over 24 sons and 12 daughters, Kangxi solicited many scholars who saw to their education. A bronze statue of Kangxi can be viewed at the Chengde Mountain Resort, China.
George Washington (1732 – 1799) - Though Washington had no biological offspring he showed great love for his wife’s two children, Martha and John. He brought them up as though they were his own. Martha reportedly died in his arms of an epileptic attack. A noble monument to George stands Washington DC.
Martin Luther King Jr. (1929-1968) – A man of firm beliefs, King is less known for being a father. But even in his famous, ‘I have a Dream’ speech he stated, "I have a dream that my four children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character." Memorials to King are scattered across the Nation, like this one soon to grace to National Mall in D.C.
Ronald Regan (1911-2004) – A self-made man in his own right, Regan was making his way from movies to politics during the period his four children were born. From actor to President, Reagan remained a family man until his death in 2004. This memorial wall is located outside the Regan Museum in California.
Walt Disney (1901-1966) - Disney’s fame for creating the ‘World of Disney’ and hundreds of beloved characters spreads across the globe. To his two daughters, Diane and Sharon, he was devoted and supportive, reportedly never missing one of their events. A bronze figure of Walt hand-in-hand with his beloved Mickey Mouse stands in Disneyland, CA.
John Wayne (1907-1979) - John Wayne had seven children between 1934 and 1966. He spent as much time with them as possible between movie shootings, reportedly taking several of them on these trips with him. A memorial of John as the world knew him best, in his cowboy hat astride a horse, stands in Hollywood, CA.
James (Jim) Henson (1936 – 1990) - Jim Henson was a devoted father of five: two boys and three girls. He nurtured their creativity at home while sharing his creative genius with children everywhere. A fitting memorial to Henson was created in 2003 at the University of Maryland.
Steve Irwin – (1962 -2006) – The “Crocodile Hunter” became a worldwide celebrity through energetic television performances and wildlife expertise. His devotion to Bindi and Robert, his two children, is well-known. A bronze bust of the Irwin family is on display at the Australia Zoo.
Walter Payton (1954- 1999) – Nicknamed “Sweetness” for his mild demeanor, Payton was best known for his success with the Chicago Bears and the Walter Payton Foundation. His wife and two children knew to be a warm and lighthearted person. A memorial to Payton stands at the Jackson University where he first played football.