The Gaspar de Portola, 9-foot statue was sculpted by Spanish artist Josep Maria Subirachs and his associate, Francesc Carulla. It was given to the State of California by Spain in 1988. Gaspar de Portola, led the expedition responsible for the European discovery of San Francisco Bay. The explorers camped on the beach near the statue site and later journeyed up the hills to Sweeney Ridge.It is important to save this statue for future generations to see and learn from. We cannot erase the past. Tearing this statue down wont change anything.