The distinguished gentleman portrayed in this sculpture is often called “the Penman of the Constitution.”

Gouverneur (yes, that’s his first name) Morris (1752-1816) was a Pennsylvania delegate to the United States Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia in the summer of 1787 and chaired the committee on style.

Morris saw to it that the document’s text is not only well organized, clear and concise but also has an inspirational preface, calling for “a more perfect Union.” Morris, Virginia delegate James Madison stated approvingly, put “the finish” on the Constitution.