Rhode Islanders almost out of time to see the Independent Man at the State House

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Rhode Islanders are running out of time to see the Independent Man at the State House.

The iconic statue will be on the move Monday to begin the restoration process.

It will be taken to the Rhode Island National Guard’s North Main Street Armory in Providence.

The Independent Man will spend a few months there as crews work on repairs. It will receive a fresh layer of gold leaf covering that it had until 50 years ago, when it was replaced for gold plating to keep it in better condition.

The statue came down from the top of the State House last month, touching the ground for the first time in nearly 50 years.

The public can see the Independent Man up close until Friday.