Marsh Bob statute in Capitol Building

[gary]

So, what's with rubbing his left boot? Luck?

BTW, all the times I've been to Washington, I've never been inside the Capitol Building or the White House.

[hoosier]

Do you have a picture or an article or something about rubbing the left boot?

[gary]

No photo. I was told that the toe of the left boot was shiny in contrast to the bronze patina on the rest of the statute. I was wondering if it was like rubbing Little Sorrel for good luck.

[samgrant]

What is "Marsh Bob"?

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[hoosier]

I remember visiting Preble Hall, the Naval Academy museum.

There was a bronze bust of one of the World War II admirals on display - I don't remember if it was Halsey or Nimitz - but the tip of the nose was, as Gary described Marsh Bob's boot (I assume he's referring to the statue of Robert E. Lee at the U.S. Capitol), shiny in comparison to the bronze patina on the rest of the bust.

I always wondered if it was a Naval Academy tradition for midshipmen to rub the admiral's nose for luck before big exams.

Incidentally, if you're ever in Annapolis, Preble Hall is well worth a visit. They have some fascinating stuff on display.

[gary]

Sorry SamGrant. "Marsh" is southron for Master and "Bob" is Robert. Master Robert is Lee.

[ole]

Lincoln's tomb features a large bronze bust. You guessed it; the nose is shiny.

ole

[PvtClewell]

Ditto for Paddy O'Rorke's nose on Little Round Top.