The statue is a life size version of Scipio Smith. Scipio was a former slave who came to Lancaster as a boy in 1810 and received his full freedom on May 29, 1821. In 1825, he opened a church with a school attached so that black residents had a place for worship and education. Scipio also became the first black businessman in the city when he opened his own tinsmith shop in 1827.

His legacy has now been solidified in bronze by sculptor Alan Cottrill. The statue is true to Scipio’s actual height of six feet four inches. He is depicted with tinsmith tools, a cross around his neck and holding a chain with an open shackle. The shackle is inscribed with the date of his emancipation. It also features a wooden prosthetic that Scipio had to wear due to an accident during his childhood which took his leg. The statue was dedicated on May 29, 2025; 204 years – to the day – after his emancipation. The City of Lancaster celebrates “Scipio Smith Day” every year on May 29.