Northwood University unveils Sybil Ludington statue in Midland
Northwood University unveiled a striking bronze sculpture of Revolutionary War heroine Sybil Ludington, capturing her legendary 1777 midnight ride. The work is a replica of a piece by Anna Hyatt Huntington, and it stands alongside the legacy of the university’s Distinguished Women Awards.
Placed on the Midland campus, the statue serves as a visual reminder of women’s contributions that have often been eclipsed in history. President Kent MacDonald noted the contrast between Ludington’s modest historical record and the fame of Paul Revere, underscoring the school’s commitment to honoring overlooked bravery.
Anna Hyatt Huntington’s seven‑decade career produced more than 570 works, including the iconic Lincoln on the Prairie that has long graced Northwood’s grounds. Though the sculptor is no longer with us, the university honored her posthumously, with Brookgreen Gardens’ Robin Salmon accepting the award on her behalf.
The ceremony gathered students, alumni honorees and community members, reinforcing the idea that art can spark curiosity and embody values beyond business. Voices such as Dr. Rita Case and junior Kennedy Williams highlighted how the piece symbolizes courage and the lasting impact of women who shape history.