Community invited to DuBois monument rededication, light-up ceremony

DUBOIS, Pa. — All members of the community are invited to take part in a rededication and light-up ceremony for the John DuBois Monument at Penn State DuBois. A reception is planned for 7 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 1, in Room 203 of the DEF Building. A short program is planned, with an official light-up of the monument to follow, visible from the reception location. Refreshments will be provided.

The monument underwent a renovation and rejuvenation over the last several months, including professional cleaning, the removal of vegetation surrounding it, and the installation of new solar lighting, which will increase the visibility of the monument at night from much of the city. A new concrete sidewalk was installed around the site, and new wrought-iron fencing has replaced the former chain-link fence.

Situated above the Penn State DuBois campus on what is referred to as Monument Hill, the granite statue marks the grave site of John DuBois, who founded the town of DuBois, and is topped by a figure of a woman said to represent hope. High atop the hill, it overlooks the city and the land his estate once occupied. DuBois made his fortune in the lumber industry, and owned and operated a large sawmill that was once located across today's Route 255 from the campus. He died in 1886, and according to legend, is buried at this site alongside his horse. The DuBois family donated the estate property to Penn State in 1937. 

For those who wish to attend, an RSVP is appreciated. Contact Jessica Mondi at jlm1083@psu.edu or 814-375-4818.