Commissioned in 1909 by the State of Michigan, sculpted by Potter, and erected originally in Loranger Square, the stately equestrian statue of George A. Custer portrays the leader of the Michigan Calvary Brigade during the Civil War, who is more famous for his involvement in the Indian wars. Custer grew up in Monroe. During the late nineteenth century, the monumental sculpture of heroes and leaders for erection in parks was the primary source of commissions for many sculptors.