Az Eszterházy Károly Tanárképző Főiskola Tudományos Közleményei. 1998. [Vol. 5.] Eger Journal of American Studies. (Acta Academiae Paedagogicae Agriensis : Nova series ; Tom. 25)
Studies - András Csillag: Joseph Pulitzer, Master Journalist and Benefactor
made an appeal to the American public through his newspapers. He published an effective editorial in The World : " It would be an irrevocable disgrace to New York City and the American Republic to have France send us this splendid gift without our having provided even so much as a landing place for it ... There is but one thing that can be done. We must raise the money ... Take this appeal to yourself personally. It is meant for every reader of The World. Give something, however little. Send it to us. We will receive it and see that it is properly applied. We will also publish the name of every giver, however small sum given ... „ (The World , March 16, 1885) As the fund drive began in both of Pulitzer's papers in New York and St. Louis, the response was instant and popular. Contributions started to How in, including, of course, Pulitzer's own. Ultimately, the Bartholdi Pedestal Fund totaled more than one hundred thousand dollars, representing tens of thousands of donations ranging from a nickel to 250 dollars. The money was soon turned over to the builders and when a French ship brought the statue to New York the 89 feet (27 m) tall, beautifully designed granite pedestal was ready for the great figure that would become, perhaps, the most famous symbol of the United States and freedom. The statue was dedicated in October 1886, with a great naval and civic demonstration. Dignitaries from both countries were in abundant attendance. The sculptor was also present to witness the crowning of his work and the ceremony closed with a brief address by President Grover Cleveland, in which he said, "'We will not forget that Liberty has made here her home; nor shall her chosen altar be neglected". (Seitz, 155-159.) Whether Pulitzer's initiative to encourage his readers to make a donation in order to save the reputation of the project was an act of philanthropy on his behalf, perhaps, can be argued. No doubt, this campaign equally served his and his paper's interests, too. Still, according to the permanent exhibit in the base of the Statute of Liberty highlighting the monument's history, Pulitzer did have a prominent role in the erection of the pedestal and thereby in the whole process. This role only enhanced Pulitzer's standing as one of the country's most famous and respected newspapermen. His love of the fine arts and music was also known. His appreciation and taste were reflected 14
