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Granite base Ornamentation: paired fasces and ribbon and swag Fasces: From the Latin word "fascis," meaning "bundle" Symbolize summary power and jurisdiction, and/or strength through unity The traditional Roman fasces consisted of a bundle of white birch rods, tied together with a red leather ribbon into a cylinder, and including a bronze ax amongst the rods, with the blade on the side Symbolism: It has been suggested that since the rods in a bundle are harder to break, or harder for the ax to cut, the fasces symbolizes the message "United we stand." Alternately, the rods represent the authority to punish citizens, the ax represents the authority to execute them, and the ribbons represent the restraint of that authority. See also: Fasces in the City Hall Common Council Chamber and the portico columns

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