The sculpture depicts a man in historical attire associated with the late 18th or early 19th century. He wears a fitted shirt with a pleated front, tight trousers with buttons, shoes with buckles, and a helmet-like hat. The man holds a sledge-like tool in his right hand. He stands with one leg on a block, giving an authoritative appearance. The sculpture appears monochromatic, resembling stone or metal. Carved swirls support the block under his foot, typical of traditional memorial sculptures. The color variations suggest shading for a 3D effect. The block is engraved with "SHIP ALBANY," "NEW YORK TO SAN FRANCISCO," and "JAN. 1838 / JULY 1929," suggesting historical significance.