which depicts the raising of the bear flag, was originally on the front of the base. It was moved between the years 1914 and 1923. On June 1, 1932, the monument was declared a California Historical Landmark, making it the seventh landmark to become named to the list. The bear flag is raised at the monument at the annual Bear Flag Celebration. Acquisition The piece was acquired by the state of California and the Native Sons of the Golden West as a tribute to the 68th anniversary of the bear flag being raised during the Bear Flag Revolt. Groundbreaking for the site took place on October 30, 1913. It was estimated that 500 members of the Native Sons of the Golden West were in attendance. After the groundbreaking, dinner was served by the Native Daughters of the Golden West. The casting of the monument cost $5,000. The rock base and sculpture were installed onsite days before the dedication. The monument was dedicated on June 14, 1914. Then California governor Hiram Johnson spoke at the dedication. An estimated "1,000 automobiles," and "at least 5,000 visitors" attended the event. At the time, it was stated to be the "greatest crowd Sonoma had ever seen," by the Sonoma Index-Tribune. Condition The sculpture was surveyed by the Smithsonian Institution in 1994. It was noted as needing conservation treatment at that time. Gallery References External links Bear Flag Monument, Sonoma, California, 1967 as photographed by Don Meacham and in the collection of the Sonoma County Library History of Sonoma County, California California Historical Landmarks Monuments and memorials in California 1914 sculptures 1914 in California Bronze sculptures in California Statues in California Sculptures of men in California