PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Rhode Islanders have a few more days to get a selfie with the newly restored Independent Man. Gov. Dan McKee's office announced the 14-foot, gold-plated statue will be hoisted back up to the top of the State House next month. "I am happy that the Independent Man will be back home for the holidays this year," McKee said. "For the past six months, the lobby of the State House has been filled with visitors impressed by the newly gilded and skillfully crafted Independent Man statue, and I encourage any Rhode Islanders who have not yet had the opportunity to see him in person to do so before he journeys back to the top of the State House." BACKGROUND: Independent Man taken down for restoration The statue was taken down for restoration last December, and its marble base was replaced after a crack was discovered. The Independent Man will be taken out of public view by Dec. 9 to get it ready for its return, according to the governor's office. The statue is expected to be lifted "sometime between Dec. 12-20." There was a delay in the statue's return after Hurricane Helene slowed down the delivery of new marble. READ MORE: Independent Man’s return to top of RI State House delayed Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup SIGN UP NOW