Sunday, September 30, 2012

Sculptures of Springfield: Second Massachusetts Infantry Memorial


Interesting Places I've Photographed
Second Massachusetts Infantry Memorial
Springfield, MA
Topic: Sculptures of Springfield


GPS: N42° 06.621; W072° 36.130

Quick Description: 

Statue of a soldier and plaque honoring the 2nd Massachusetts Infantry's role in the war with Spain is located in Memorial Square in Springfield.

Long Description:

In the middle of the triangle created by main and Plainfield Streets in the north end of Springfield is a statue honoring the Second Massachusetts Infantry and the part they played in the Spanish-American War.

The plaque depicts the the outline of a fort with the names of the campaigns involving 2nd Massachusetts Infantry:

El Caney
Santiago de Cuba


Below is inscribed:

Second
Massachusetts
Infantry U.S.V.
War With Spain 1898
-------------------
Erected By Friends
Of The Regiment In
Everlasting Remembrance

Saturday, September 29, 2012

Sculptures of Springfield: Civil War Monument


Interesting Places I've Visited
Civil War Monument
Springfield, MA
Topic: Sculptures of Springfield


GPS: N42° 07.309; W072° 33.999
Quick Description: 

The Civil War Monument is located Oak Grove Cemetery in Springfield, MA.

Long Description:

On a hill top in Oak Grove Cemetery there is an area of grave sites for Civil War veterans. In the middle of these graves there is a Civil War Monument.

A 10' high granite statue, by an unknown artist, depicts a standing moustached Civil War soldier wearing a Union uniform with a waist length jacket and belt. He is holding a flag nearly vertically in his left hand. The flag extends several feet above his head. In his right hand he holds a sword with the blade touching the top of his his right foot.

The granite base is about 15' high and 4' by 4' square. The shaft rests on top of three steps. The top of the shaft is ringed with stars. The lower part of the base has a relief of crossed rifles and a canteen. The highest step has the inscription:


1861 - 1865
The shaft has the inscription:


THEY
SERVED THEIR
COUNTRY



Friday, September 28, 2012

Sculptures of Springfield: Civil War Soldiers Monument


Interesting Places I've Photographed
Civil War Soldiers Monument 
Springfield, MA
Topic: Sculptures of Springfield


GPS: N42° 06.106; W072° 34.537

Quick Description: 

The Civil War Soldiers Monument is located in Springfield Cemetery.

Long Description:

The Springfield Cemetery has a section reserved for Civil War veterans. In the middle of a group of granite Civil War headstones there is a 10' high sculpture of a Civil War soldier standing on an ornate 10' by 5' by 5' base.

The sculpture depicts a bearded soldier wearing a Union uniform, including a cap and a long coat. He is standing with his rifle held vertically in front of him with his left wrist resting on the top of the rifle barrel. The sculpture is installed on a square granite base adorned with angular architectural elements on the sides and leaf pattern around the top. The front contains a bas relief sculpture of an olive branch.

The sculpture was cast by the M. J. Power Bronze Foundry in about 1880. The sculptor is unknown.

Thursday, September 27, 2012

Sculptures of Springfield: Civil War Monument (Court Square)


Interesting Places I've Photographed 
Civil War Monument (Court Square)
Springfield, MA
Topic: Sculptures of Springfield


GPS: N42° 06.089; W072° 35.305

Quick Description: 

A 30' high Civil War Monument dominates the eastern part of Court Square in downtown Springfield.


Long Description:

At the east end of Court Square is a Civil War Monument by the prolific sculptor Melzar Hunt Mosman. A 6' by 2' by 2' figure of a Civil War soldier is placed on top of an ornate 30' high granite pedestal. He is dressed in period uniform and stands upright with his rifle held vertically and centered in front of him. His left wrist is on top of the barrel and his right hand grasps the middle of the barrel. His left foot is slightly forward and extends over the bronze base.

Bands with bronze lettering containing the names of Civil War battles encircle the base. A plaque is set into recesses below the bands:

Clockwise from the front:

Battles:


Malvern
Antietam
Gettysburg

Plaque:


An eagle with spread wings holding arrows sits on top a shield inscribed U.S.A. which is surrounded by flags, swords, bayonets and cannons.

Battles:

Mine Run
Goldsboro
Wilderness

Plaque inscription:

Springfield furnished in
the war of the rebellion
two thousand four hun-
dred and eighty five
soldiers and sailors.
The greater part of
whom enlisted in the 10th
27th 37th & 46th regiments.
--------------------------
They served with credit and honor
and the survivors returning to the
walks of peaceful life. Cherishing
the memory of their comrades who
fell. Dedicate this monument to
perpetuate their memory amid
the homes they died to save
May the memory of the patriot dead
be the inspiration of posterity.


Battles:

Newbern
Fair Oaks
Appomattox

Plaque inscription:

Erected in honor
of all who died
on land or sea
in defence of our
NATIONAL UNION
------
The memory of their
heroic sacrifices must
be forever sacred
------
Presented by
GURDON BILL.
------
M.H.Mosman Designer.


Battles:


Kinston
Yorktown
Petersburg

Plaque inscription:

To the memory
of the men of Springfield
who died for their country
in the war of the rebellion
1861 - 1865
---------
"It is for us to be here
dedicated to the great task remaining
before us: that from these honored dead
we take increased devotion to that cause
for which they gave the last full measure
of devotion: that we here highly resolve
that these dead shall not have died in vain;
that the nation shall, under God, have a
new birth of freedom, and that government
of the people, by the people, for the people,
shall not perish from the earth."
A. Lincoln. 


Wednesday, September 26, 2012

Sculptures of Springfield: Marine Memorial


Interesting Places I've Photographed
Marine Memorial
Springfield, MA
Topic: Sculptures of Springfield


GPS: N42° 06.044; W072° 35.374

Quick Description: 

The Marine Memorial is located in Court Square in downtown Springfield.

Long Description:

Several monument line the sidewalk on the west side of Court Square. The Marine Memorial is in the center between the Vietnam and Korean monuments.

This memorial is in a landscaped setting, flanked by benches and behind a bed of flowers. A 4' by 5' by 1' rough cut round granite base is set upright. The front is adorned with a bronze relief sculpture of the Marine insignia. An eagle is standing on globe which is showing the western hemisphere. An anchor is set behind the globe at a 45 degree angle.


Above the insignia in raised bronze letters is the Marine motto:

SEMPER FIDELIS

A plaque below the insignia is inscribed:

FOREVER HONORED
DEDICATED
TO ALL MARINES

A granite plaque below the monument is inscribed:

1775 - NOV. 10 - 1975
OUR MARINES CELEBRATE 200
YEARS OF VALOROUS SERVICE BY
A RELAY RUN FROM TUN TAVERN
TO SPRINGFIELD AND BY
REDEDICATION OF THIS MONUMENT

Tuesday, September 25, 2012

Sculptures of Springfield: Christopher Columbus


Interesting Places I've Photographed
Christopher Columbus (Christoforo Columbo)
a.k.a. The Springfield Italian-American War Memorial
Springfield, MA
Topic: Sculptures of Springfield


GPS: N42° 05.486; W072° 34.778


Quick Description: 

A statue of Christopher Columbus at the Springfield Italian-American War Memorial at Main and Locust Streets in the South End neighborhood of Springfield.

Long Description:

Christopher Columbus was born about October 31, 1451 in the Republic of Genoa, in northwestern Italy. He was an explorer and navigator whose voyages of exploration were financed by the Monarchs of Spain. He made four voyages across the Atlantic Ocean, the publicity from which led to an awareness by Europeans of the existence of a New World. He established permanent settlements on the island of Hispaniola and started the colonization process of the New World. He died in Valladolid, Spain on May 20, 1506 at age 54. 

At the center of the Springfield Italian-American War Memorial is a 5.5' statue of Christopher Columbus standing on a 4.5' base. The statue is flanked by two matching tablets containing the names of Italian-American residents of Greater Springfield who served the United States in wartime. The monument is in the center of a newly refurbished and landscaped traffic island in the South End of Springfield, historically the Italian-American area of Springfield. The statue was erected on October 12, 1963, Columbus Day, and rededicated in 1986 on the 350th anniversary of the founding of Springfield.

A granite statue of Christopher Columbus is wearing a tunic, a medallion around his neck, and a fur lined coat is standing on an ornate pedestal. He is holding a scroll in his lowered left hand and a sextant in his right hand which is at waist level. He is standing in front of a capstan on a base inscribed with his name:


CHRISTOFORO COLUMBO

The base has an ornate frieze depicting a central flower followed by leaves and berries. On the front, below the frieze, is the insignia of the U.S. Italian-American War Veterans and the inscription:


US ITALIAN AMERICAN WAR VETERANS
DEDICATED OCT.12, 1963
BY
JOSEPH C. CICCARELLI
POST 59
AND
UNITED ITALIAN AMERICAN
SOCIETIES AND CLUBS
OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD

On a tablet below the memorial is the inscription:


1636 {Image of the Springfield Municipal Group} 1986
THE CITY OF SPRINGFIELD IS PROUD
AND HONORED TO REDEDICATE THE STATUE
OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS, A TRUE SYMBOL
OF THE PRIDE AND DEDICATION OF SPRINGFIELD'S
ITALIAN-AMERICANS PAST AND PRESENT
DURING THIS 350TH ANNIVERSARY OF OUR
GREAT CITY
RICHARD E. NEAL
MAYOR

The left tablet contains a three column list of 42 names. The right tablet contains a three column list of 36 names.



Monday, September 24, 2012

Sculptures of Springfield: Eagle Sculpture


Interesting Places I've Photographed
Eagle Sculpture
Springfield, MA
Topic: Sculptures of Springfield


N 42° 06.096 W 072° 35.344

Quick Description: 

The Eagle sculpture sits on top of the fountain outside One Financial Plaza in downtown Springfield.

Long Description:

One Financial Plaza is now the home of Sovereign Bank. It is located next to the northeast edge, and just outside, of Court Square. At the entrance to the building there is a plaza with tables, chairs, and benches. The focal point of this space is a fountain featuring the sculpture of an eagle. The building and the fountain were erected in 1982.

A 3' by 3' eagle with its wings spread holds a fish in its claws. The sculpture is made of Cor-Ten steel and is placed on top of 12' high 3' by 3' square granite shaft. The main shaft is surrounded by several smaller granite shafts. The sculpture and base are in the center of a pool which is part of the fountain.


Location:
One Financial Plaza
1350 Main Street
Springfield, MA 01103


Sunday, September 23, 2012

Sculptures of Springfield: Spirit - Mascot of WNEU


Interesting Places I've Photographed
Spirit - Mascot of Western New England University
Springfield, MA
Topic: Sculptures of Springfield


GPS: N42° 06.893; W072° 31.188

Quick Description: 

A statue of an Alaskan Kodiak Island Brown Bear, the mascot of the Western New England University, is located near the St. Germain Campus Center building.

Long Description:

In 1976 Henry Bazan, Professor of Management, and founder and former Head Coach of the football team began the "Bring the Bear Home Committee" to install a statue of the schools mascot on the campus of then Western New England College, now Western New England University.
On November 7, 1986, a five-ton, nine-foot, painted, stone replica of an Alaskan Kodiak Island Brown Bear was installed on a knoll next to the Campus Center. Bazan nicknamed the Golden Bear "Spirit". A plaque in front of the bear is inscribed:


THE GOLDEN BEAR

The College mascot, the Golden Bear,
exemplifies the enthusiasm, strength,
and pride of Western New England College.
This statue, fashioned after a Kodiak Brown
Bear which often weighs three quarters of a ton
and towers nine feet when on hind legs,
is the result of individual contributions
and fund-raising efforts conducted between 1977 - 1987
by the football, management,
and marketing clubs of the College.
Dedicated September 19, 1987

Saturday, September 22, 2012

Sculptures of Springfield: Classical Fragments


Interesting Places I've Photographed
Classical Fragments 
Springfield, MA
Topic: Sculptures of Springfield 


GPS: N42° 06.815;W72° 33.426
 
 Short Description: 

The Classical Fragments are located on the campus of American International College outside the Karen Sprague Cultural Arts Center on State Street in Springfield.

 Long Description:

Easily seen as you drive eastbound on State Street, Classical Fragments consist of a 5' high by 4' wide arrangement of  three sections of a large, fluted, ionic, marble column set on a 6" high and 5' square  concrete platform. The fragments are of different sizes. The smallest fragment is a 3' high section of fluted column standing vertically. The next piece is similar to the first but slightly longer. It is set at an angle on a concrete base so that it leans against the tallest fragment, which is 5' high and contains the capital of an ionic column.

The capital is square with intricately carved spiraling scrolls at each corner. Just below on the circular column above the fluting is a repeating garland design. Between the spirals, on three sides, there is a ornamental design. The fourth side shows a human face.



Friday, September 21, 2012

Sculptures of Springfield: Everglades


Interesting Places I've Photographed
Everglades Sculpture
Springfield, MA
Topic: Sculptures of Springfield


GPS: N42° 06.191; W072° 35.220

Quick Description:

Everglades is located in Pynchon Plaza Park on Dwight Street in downtown Springfield, MA.

Long Description:

Pynchon Plaza Park was a bicentennial project of the City of Springfield. It's a pocket park built into a steep hillside and flanked by tall buildings. The focal point of the Pynchon Plaza Plaza is an abstract sculpture created by Isaac Witkin in 1977.

A series of brown Cor-Ten steel plates are formed into fragments of circles. The largest fragments, which are near the bottom and the edges are nearly semi-circular. Smaller fragments are arranged above the large pieces in an overlapping pattern. The sculpture is raised off the ground by matching steel legs. The sculpture is about 10' long and 3' wide and 3' high.

The sculpture was funded with a National Endowment for the Arts - Art in Public Places grant received by the City in 1974.

Thursday, September 20, 2012

Sculptures of Springfield: Buddha


Interesting Places I've Photographed
Buddha Statue 
Springfield, MA
Topic: Sculptures of Springfield


GPS: N42 6.224; W72 35.115 

Short Description:

The Buddha statue is located outside the George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum at the Quadrangle in Springfield.

Long Description:

The George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum is a Victorian-style museum featuring decorative arts and paintings that were collected by George Walter Vincent Smith and his wife, Belle, during the late 1800s. It  including the largest Chinese cloisonné collection outside of China.

The Ancient Treasures Gallery displays objects from ancient Egypt, China, Greece and Rome. The Japanese Arms and Armor Gallery, displays the Smith's collection of Oriental armor.

The collection is housed in an ornate Italianate  building which includes a loggia. One item from the collection is on display underneath the porch of the loggia. There you will find a 5' high metal statue of a Buddha.

The Buddha is standing on simulated sculpted rocky surface. He is wearing flowing robes with a long rope belt. His hair id tied up in a knot and he is smiling. His left hand is cupped in front of his chest and his right hand is held vertically above his left hand.

Wednesday, September 19, 2012

Sculptures of Springfield: George Washington Statue (Replica)


Interesting Places I've Visited
George Washington Statue (Replica)
Springfield, MA
Topic: Sculptures of Springfield


GPS: N42° 05.279; W072° 33.566

Quick Description: 

An untitled statue of George Washington is located at the large Holy Name Church complex on Dickinson Street in Springfield.

Long Description:

The Holy Name Church and School complex is composed of five buildings and four statues on half a square block in the Forest Park section of Springfield. While three of the statues, as would be expected are religious, the fourth and largest is a larger-than-life statue of a standing George Washington.

In front of the school on Dickinson Street is the metal statue of George Washington standing upright on a granite base. His right hand is resting on a walking stick and his left is resting on a bundle of fasces, a Roman symbol of authority. The statue itself has no inscription or title, however a maker's block is inscribed: "A. Daprato Co. Church Statuary Boston, Mass". The statue dated back to about 1910 when the Holy Name Church was serving the Irish residents of Springfield with over 2000 parishioners.

Untitled sculptures can be a challenge. This one was easy; but where did I see it before? It happens to be a copy of the famous marble statue of George Washington in the Virginia State Capitol in Richmond and the bronze copy in the rotunda of the United States Capitol. 

Location:
Holy Name School
323 Dickinson St.
Springfield, MA United States
01108

Tuesday, September 18, 2012

Sculptures of Springfield: Anthony M. Scibelli Memorial


Interesting Places I've Photographed
Anthony M. Scibelli Memorial
Springfield, MA
Topic: Sculptures of Springfield



GPS: N42° 05.581; W072° 34.951

Quick Description: 

A bust and plaque has been erected in honor of  former State Representative Anthony M. Scibelli in the South End neighborhood of Springfield, MA

Long Description:

A life size bust by sculptor Carl B. Sundberg of America's longest serving state legislator, Anthony M. Scibelli is located in the South End neighborhood that he represented for 46 years. Mr. Scibelli was also one of the founders of Springfield Technical Community College, which was created when the Springfield Armory closed down.

A plaque attached to a granite pedestal is inscribed:


{Map and Seal of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts}

In Fond Memory of State Representive
ANTHONY M. SCIBELLI
1911 - 1998
"A man of the people"
----------
Springfield Common Council
1940 - 1950
----------
Massachusetts House of Representatives
1951 - 1998
----------
"Dean" of the Massachusetts House of Representatives
and America's Longest Continuously
serving State Legislator
----------
Dedicated September 14, 1999

Monday, September 17, 2012

Sculptures of Springfield: Edward P. Boland Memorial



Interesting Places I've Photographed
Edward P. Boland Memorial
Springfield, MA
Topic: Sculptures of Springfield


GPS: N42° 06.158; W072° 35.406

Quick Description: 

The Edward P. Boland Memorial is located on the corner of Main and Harrison Streets in downtown Springfield, MA

Long Description:

The Edward P. Boland Memorial has statue of the congressman set in front of a title tablet. On either side of the statue a pair of plaques inscribed with his biography and accomplishments.
The bronze statue is a life size image of Edward P. Boland wearing a business suit and tie. He is standing with his arms folded across his chest. Behind him is a vertical granite tablet with a bronze plaque inscribed EDWARD P. BOLAND, the image of the Seal of the United States Congress, and the years 1911 - 2001.

Two vertical granite tablets with bronze plaques flank the statue. The left plaque is inscribed:

Born on Essex Street in the north end of
Springfield on October 1, 1911, the youngest of
four Irish immigrant parents Michael and
Joanna Boland, Eddie Boland lived his early
years in the Hungry hill section of Springfield and
attended the city's public schools, graduating from
Springfield Central High School in 1928.

In 1934, at the age of 23, he was elected to the
Massachusetts House of Representatives where he
served for three successive terms. In 1940, he was
elected to a six year term as Registrar of deeds for
Hampden County and was re-elected in 1946. In
May 1942, shortly after America's entry into World
War II, he took military leave and enlisted as a
private in the U.S. Army. he spent 18 months in
the South Pacific and was honorably discharged in
1946 with the rank of Captain. In 1952, he was
elected to the United States Congress from the
second Massachusetts district and was re-elected
for 17 consecutive terms.

He retired in 1988 after fifty-four years of public
service. In retirement he continued to live in
Springfield with his wife Mary Egan Boland and
their four children until his death on November 4,
2001. His public career is a testament to the belief
that a public office is a public trust - that the office
belongs not to the holder, but to the people, and
that every person who enters its doors should be
treated with respect and dignity.


The right plaque is inscribed:

Throughout his career Eddie Boland was a
champion of democratic ideals and the belief that
government should be an active positive force in
people's lives. His thirty-six years in the United
States Congress were marked by compassion for
the least among us and an unwavering belief in
the right of every person, regardless of
background, to equality of opportunity. he was a
strong supporter of the civil rights movement and
in 1965 journeyed to Selma, Alabama to march
alongside Martin Luther King, Jr. in a powerful
demonstration of their shared goals.

As a long time member of the House
Appropriations Committee, he led efforts to
provide funds to revitalize America's cities,
expand housing opportunities for the poor, the
elderly and the disabled, improve the quality of
the air we breathe and the water we drink and
redeem the nation's pledge to care for its veterans
and their families. In 1958, he co-sponsored
legislation to establish the Cape Cod National
Seashore, expanding the governments efforts to
protect land for public use. A zealous advocate of
America's Space program, he was a champion of
NASA's efforts to explore the universe.

Among his colleagues his name was
synonymous with integrity. In 1977 he was
appointed the first chairman of the House
Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, and
was author of the Boland Amendment designed to
prevent the United States from engaging secretly
in activities in Central America, which were
inconsistent with publicly stated policies. His
career spanned 54 years of devotion to the public
service and to ideals which are the source of
America's greatness.



Sunday, September 16, 2012

Sculptures of Springfield: Toto the Windsor Indian


Interesting Places I've Visited
Toto the Windsor Indian
and the Attack on Springfield
Springfield, MA
Topics: Sculptures of Springfield, Battlefields


GPS: N42° 04.430; W072° 35.062

Quick Description: 

During the King Phillip's War the large English settlement at Springfield was virtually completely burned to the ground. Toto the Windsor Indian warned settlers in advance allowing them to reach the safety of the Old Fort.

Long Description:

On October 5 1675, the peace between the native people and the English settlers in Springfield was shattered when the native people of the area gathered at what is now known as King Phillip's Stockade (the coordinates for this waymark) to initiate an attack on the English settlement. The leader of the Native Americans was Chief Metacomet, called King Phillip by the English. Thousands of English settlers and Native Americans died in King Phillip's War, which to this day remains the most violent war per capita in American history.

King Phillip incited the local Agawam Indians to rebel against the English settlers of Springfield and burn the town to the ground; but the residents of Springfield were warned of the impending attack from a native from Windsor, CT named "Toto", who is often referred to as "The Windsor Indian." A bronze statue of whom has been erected in King Phillip's Stockade (coordinates: N42 4.439; W72 35.055)

The first casualties of the attack were Lieutenant Thomas Cooper and Constable Thomas Miller. A plaque noting the location of this attack can be found at Mill and Main Streets (coordinates N42° 5.372; W72° 34.721). The plaque is inscribed:


Near This Spot
Lieut. Thomas Cooper
and
Constable Thomas Miller
were killed by the Indians
just prior to the
burning of Springfield
October 5, 1675

Erected by Mercy Warren Chapter D.A.R.
1911



Because of the warning many residents left their homes and took refuge in the only fortified structure in Springfield, a block house, later called the "Old Fort", which was built and owned by John Pynchon, the son of the founder of Springfield. The defence of the "Old Fort" was under the command of Captain Miles Morgan, who successfully protected the settlers while their homes were being burned. Thereafter, Captain Morgan earned the nickname "The Hero of Springfield". There is a statue of him, nearby, in Court Square (coordinates: N 42° 06.078; W 072° 35.334).


There is also a plaque to mark the location of the "Old Fort" (coordinates: N 42° 06.216; W 072° 35.615) just inside the entrance to a popular restaurant on Fort Street which now occupies the site. The plaque is inscribed:

This plate commemorates
the building known as
The Old Fort
erected on this site in 1660
by John Pynchon son of
William Pynchon
leader of the first settlement
of Springfield



The King Phillip's War, claimed the lives of over 800 settlers. More than 8000 Native Americans were killed, enslaved, or became refugees. The war ended in of 1676, when King Phillip was killed by colonists and the subsequent surrender of the Native Americans.

Saturday, September 15, 2012

Sculptures of Springfield: Omiskanoagwiah, the Wolf People-Medicine Man


Omiskanoagwiah, the Wolf People-Medicine Man
Springfield, MA
Topic: Sculptures of Springfield





GPS: N42° 04.360; W072° 34.904

Quick Description: 

Omiskanoagwiah, The Wolf-People Medicine Man, a sculpture by Peter Wolf Toth, is located at the western entrance to Forest Park, in Springfield.

Long Description:

At the western entrance to Forest Park, in Springfield, there is a stylized bust of Omiskanoagwiah, the Wolf-People Medicine Man. It is carved from a single log by the Hungarian born sculptor, Peter Wolf Toth. It is part of the Trail of the Whispering Giant series of more than sixty sculptures that have been created to honor native Americans. There is at least one sculpture has been donated to every state and several Canadian provinces.

Omiskanoagwiah wears a wolf-head headdress with three feathers, a large one flanked by two smaller ones. He has long hair over his shoulders and wears an ornament below his neck. His face is stained red, the rest is stained black. At the bottom of the statue is the carving of a turtle. The sculpture is mounted upon a base made of cemented rocks. A plaque on the front is inscribed:

The Trail Of The
Whispering Giants

"Omiskanoagwiak"
Wolf-People Medicine Man

Dedicated to the:
Pioneer Valley Indians

Sculptor:
Peter Wolf Toth

Mayor
Richard E. Neal

Courtesy
City of Springfield
Park Commission

Sponsor
Joseph J. Deliso, Sr.

November 18, 1984

Friday, September 14, 2012

Sculptures of Springfield: A Memorial to the First Game of Basketball


Interesting Places I've Photographed
A Memorial to the First Game of Basketball
Springfield, MA
Topic: Sculptures of Springfield


N 42° 06.644 W 072° 33.954

Quick Description:  

A sculpture of an adult bounce passing a ball to a young boy marks the site of the first game of basketball, which was played in Springfield, MA on December 21, 1981.


Long Description:

Basketball was invented in 1891 by Dr. James Naismith, an instructor at the YMCA training school in Springfield, which is now Springfield College. The first game of basketball was played in what is now Mason Square in a small gymnasium in a building owned and operated by the School For Christian Workers, now Springfield College.  The school was located at Mason Square in Springfield. In 1894, the college move to its present location about one mile south. The original building in which the game was played has long since been demolished.

In August 2010, a memorial to the first game of basketball was erected on the exact site of the old YMCA training school on State and Sherman Streets. Set in a circular base representing a basketball, a statue of an adult bounce passing a basketball to a young boy. On the outside of the circle are a series of etched glass panels describing the development of the game of basketball from 1891 to the present.  The sculpture was designed by Michael Tully and the sculpture was created by Brian P. Hanlon.

Thursday, September 13, 2012

Sculptures of Springfield: James Naismith, the Inventor of Basketball


Interesting Places I've Photographed
James Naismith Sit-By-Me Statue
Springfield, MA
Topic: Sculptures of Springfield




GPS: N42° 06.135; W072° 33.424

Quick Description: 

The sit-by-me statue of James Naismith, the Inventor of Basketball,  is located on the campus of Springfield College in Springfield, MA
.
Long Description:

The game of basketball was invented by Dr. James Naismith, an instructor at the YMCA Training School, now Springfield College. When the college made renovations to the campus which includes a new campus union (student center). Outside this building there is a sit-by-me bench with a life-size sculpture of James Naismith, the inventor of Basketball.

Dr. Naismith is sitting on a rectangular polished granite bench. He is wearing glasses and dressed in a three piece suit. In his right hand he is holding a volleyball, the original type of ball that was used, against his thigh. His legs are straddling a peach basket, which is the the original target for the game. 

The statue is located in front of the Richard B. Flynn Campus Union (Student Center). The bronze sculpture was created by Elden C. Tefft and dedicated on April 18, 2010.   

Wednesday, September 12, 2012

Sculptures of Springfield: Reaching Woman II


Interesting Places I've Photographed
Reaching Woman II
Springfield, MA
Topic: Sculptures of Springfield


GPS: N42° 06.420; W072° 35.177

Quick Description: 

The Reaching Woman II  sculpture is located in Armoury Commons Park near downtown Springfield.

Long Description:

Armoury Commons is a residential complex located near downtown Springfield. Adjacent to the buildings is a small pocket park. The bronze Reaching Woman sculpture is now located in the north corner of this park. The neighborhood has a somewhat shady reputation. It seems safe enough during the day but it is not advisable to be there after dark.

Reaching Woman is the creation of sculptor Lu Stubbs. It was a bicentennial gift to the people of Springfield and originally placed in Pynchon Park Plaza on Main Street in downtown Springfield.

A figurative semi-abstract representation of a nude female, from the upper thighs up, rests on a granite base. Her arms a truncated at the elbows and raised above her head. Her head is tilted upward.
he 41" by 15" by 10" figure is placed on a cubic granite base 36" on a side. The work was copyrighted in 1976 and unveiled on May 23, 1977. A plaque on the top of the base is inscribed.


Bicentennial Gift
To the people of Springfield

"Reaching Woman"
sculpted by Lu Stubbs

Donated by Women's Division
Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce

May 23, 1977

------------------------

Rededicated

June 7, 2001

Women's Partnership
Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield



Tuesday, September 11, 2012

Sculptures of Springfield: Barney Mausoleum


Interesting Places I've Photographed
Barney Mausoleum
Springfield, MA

Topic: Sculptures of Springfield




GPS: N42° 04.558; W072° 34.824

Quick Description: 

Barney Mausoleum is located in the Laurel Hill section of Forest Park in Springfield.

Long Description:

Everett Hosmer Barney made his fortune as a Civil War arms producer and later as a businessman, developing clamp-on ice skates and roller-skates. In 1890 Barney built a Victorian mansion on a hill overlooking the Connecticut River. When he died he bequeathed his estate and an endowment to the City of Springfield to build and maintain a public park, which is now part of Forest Park. In 1892, Everett Barney constructed an elaborate granite and marble mausoleum for his son on a Laurel Hill, a short distance from his Victorian mansion.

The mausoleum became the final resting place of Everett Hosmer Barney, his wife Eliza Jane Knowles Barney and their son, George Murray Barney. The structure has two sets of stairs leading up to a temple consisting of twelve, fluted, pink marble, Ionic columns. On each end of the temple is the inscription 1892 LAUREL-HILL. At the base of each side of the temple is the inscription: TO LIVE IN HEARTS WE LEAVE BEHIND IS NOT TO DIE. Each stairway is guarded by a sphinx. The entire mausoleum is surrounded by an an ornate iron fence with a motif featuring oak leaves and acorns. The site has a commanding view of the Connecticut River and the Pioneer Valley of western Massachusetts.

A small bronze plaque attached to the iron gate has the inscription:

Barney Family Mausoleum
Circa 1892
Restored 2004
In Appreciation to
Executive office of Environmental Affairs
Barney Trustees
City of Springfield Administration

Monday, September 10, 2012

Sculptures of Springfield: The Three Graces


Interesting Places I've Photographed
The Three Graces
Springfield, MA
Topic: Sculptures of Springfield


GPS: N42° 04.564; W072° 34.838

Quick Description:

The Three Graces sculpture is located on at the Barney Mausoleum in Forest Park.

Long Description:

The Three Graces are the mythological daughters of Zeus, traditionally named Euphrosyne, Aglaea and Thalia. They represent the three charities of mirth (festivity), splendor (beauty), and joy (rejoicing).

According to mythology, the Three Graces wove Aphrodite's robe and attended to Aphrodite upon her returned to the island of Kypros (Cyprus) by bathing, anointing and dressing her so she could resume her romantic relationships.

Many artists have depicted these three encircled figures. At the Barney Mausoleum there is a polished granite column with a representation of The Three Graces at its apex. The three figures are shown back to back holding hands. Each has their hair drawn back into a bun and wearing a robe that exposes their breasts.

The column was erected by ice skate manufacturer Everett Barney to honor the memory of his son. Around the lower part of the column are four bronze bas relief panels created by sculptors Beattie & Brooks representing the four stages of life - “Happy Childhood”, “Youthful Dreams”, “Sturdy Manhood”, and “Life’s Decline”.

Sunday, September 9, 2012

Sculptures of Springfield: The Four Stages of Life


Interesting Places I've Photographed
The Four Stages of Life 
Springfield, MA
Topic: Sculptures of Springfield 


GPS: N42° 04.564; W072° 34.838

Quick Description: 

The Four Stages of Life bas relief panels are located on the Barney commemorative column in the Laurel Hill section of Forest Park in Springfield.

Long Description:

Everett Hosmer Barney made his fortune as a Civil War arms producer and later as a businessman, developing clamp-on ice skates and roller-skates. In 1890 Barney built a Victorian mansion on a hill overlooking the Connecticut River. When he died he bequeathed his estate and an endowment to the City of Springfield to build and maintain a public park, which is now part of Forest Park.

In 1892, Everett Barney constructed an elaborate granite and marble mausoleum for his son on a Laurel Hill, a short distance from his Victorian mansion. He also erected a beautiful granite commemorative column to the west.  It's one of the finest works of art in Springfield. At the base of the column are four bronze bas relief panels created by sculptors Beattie & Brooks representing the four stages of life. They are entitled:

Upper left - “Happy Childhood” - cherub-like children at play, some with flutes

Upper right- “Youthful Dreams” - a young man courting a young woman while another woman sits in a swing

Lower left - “Sturdy Manhood” - three men at labor as blacksmiths

Lower Right - “Life’s Decline”. -  a younger woman helps an old woman in a chair while an old man tends a fireplace

Saturday, September 8, 2012

Sculptures of Springfield: McKinley Monument


Interesting Places I've Photographed
McKinley Monument
Springfield, MA
Topic: Sculptures of Springfield




GPS: N42° 06.015; W072° 35.385

Quick Description:

The McKinley Monument is located in Court Square in downtown Springfield.

Long Description:

Following the assassination of President William McKinley, on September 6, 1901, many cities and towns erected memorials to honor the slain President. Springfield, MA commissioned the sculptor Philip Martiny to create a suitable monument. It was cast in bronze at the Aubry Brothers & Company foundry with the W. F. Cook Granite Company furnishing and erecting the base. The result was striking statue. It consists of a bust of the slain President on top of a granite pedestal. Next to the pedestal is an allegorical female figure, reaching up with a palm frond in her hand. The allegorical figure is meant to represent - Fame. The statue was dedicated in 1908.


LOCATION:
Court Square
Springfield, MA 01103

Friday, September 7, 2012

Sculptures of Springfield: Miles Morgan


Interesting Places I've Photographed
Miles Morgan Statue
Springfield, MA
Topic: Sculptures of Springfield



GPS: N42° 06.078; W072° 35.334

Quick Description: 

Miles Morgan is known as "The Hero of Springfield".

Long Description:

The statue of Miles Morgan in Springfield's Court Square, with his boots, iconic hat, and musket, probably most closely corresponds to the mental image most people have of a pilgrim. He is more than just the quintessential example of an early settler. In fact, he has an interesting life story.

Morgan was born in Bristol, England in 1616, emigrated to Boston in 1636. He accompanied William Pynchon west, into what was then the new frontier, and settled near the Connecticut River at what is now Springfield, MA. To this day, this area is called the Pioneer Valley. There he built a fortified blockhouse. Although only 20 years old, Captain Miles Morgan was made second in command to Colonel William Pynchon. A new community developed and the blockhouse became fortress of safety when the settlement was attacked by Native Americans and burned during King Phillip’s War. The early settlers held out under his protection until help could be summoned to their rescue.

His personal family story parallels that of the better known story about John Alden and Priscilla Molines aboard the "Mayflower". He first met his future wife, Prudence Gilbert, at the dock in Bristol and they sailed together to the Massachusetts Bay Colony. After settling in Springfield he traveled back to Beverly, MA where Prudence had settled. There they were married and then returned with his new bride back on foot, through the pathless forest, to the Pioneer Valley. Eventually, he returned to England and died in Wales in 1699.

The bronze statue was created by Jonathan Scott Hartley and was erected in 1882 to honor Miles Morgan's services in settling the town, governing the colony, and fighting the Native Americans during the King Phillip's War. The granite base is decorated with a bronze garland of oak leaves and contains the inscription:

MILES MORGAN
AN EARLY SETTLER OF
SPRINGFIELD
DIED 1699
AGED 81
ERECTED IN 1882 BY ONE
OF HIS DESCENDANTS OF
THE FIFTH GENERATION

The unnamed decendant of the fifth generation is probably the financier Junius Spencer Morgan who was born in Holyoke, MA in 1813.  He was the was the father of J.P. Morgan.

LOCATION: 
Court Square
Springfield, MA

Thursday, September 6, 2012

Sculptures of Springfield: The Puritan (Deacon Samuel Chapin)


Interesting Places I've Photographed
The Puritan (Deacon Samuel Chapin)
Springfield, MA
Topic: Sculptures of Springfield


GPS: N42° 06.179; W072° 35.105


Quick Description: 

The Puritan statue  in Springfield is the original version of this popular sculpture by Augustus Saint Gaudens.

Long Description:

In 1881, Chester W. Chapin, a railroad tycoon and congressman, commissioned the renowned sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens create a bronze likeness of his ancestor, Deacon Samuel Chapin (1595–1675), one of the three founders of Springfield, MA.

The statue was so popular with the public that Saint-Gaudens decided to produce smaller scale versions of this work under the title "The Puritan". He correctly surmised that this would be an excellent source of addition income. Today more than 25 slightly altered copies of this work can be found in museums, art galleries, universities, and private collections around the world.

This impressive sculpture of the The Puritan can be found outside the main Springfield Library in Merrick Park on the northeast corner of State and Chestnut Streets. The architect for the project was Stanford White, the statue was cast in bronze at the Bureau Brothers foundry and dedicated on November 27, 1887. The sculpture is approximately 12 feet high; The base is made of New Brunswick granite and is approximately 5 feet high and 6 feet in diameter. The sculpture is administered by City of Springfield.

The base is inscribed:

1595 Anno Domini 1675
Deacon Samuel Chapin
One Of The Founders Of Springfield
LOCATION:
Merrick Park
State and Chestnut Streets
Springfield, MA 01109

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

Sculptures of Springfield: Horton Court


Interesting Places I've Photographed
Horton Court
Springfield, MA
Topic: Sculptures of Springfield


GPS: N42° 06.224; W072° 35.137

Quick Description: 

The Horton Court is the largest sculpture in the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden in Springfield.

Long Description:

The Horton Court is a very large sculpture which is very popular with children visiting the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden. Ramps on either side of the court invite children to roam (but not climb) among the many Dr. Seuss Characters depicted in the sculpture.

In the center, and dominating the sculpture, is Horton the Elephant. His left front foot is raised high, his ears are splayed out and his trunk is raised up. Te next largest figure is Thidwick the Big-Hearted Moose. He is sitting upright with all four legs close holds a flower in the right side of his mouth. Sam I Am is on the south side holding green eggs and ham aloft in his right hand. One Thing Two Thing are in a running posture facing east with Conrad standing behind. Conrad's sister, Sally, is viewing the entire array of characters, with arms raises, from the north side. All the characters except Sally are placed on the pages of an open book. Sally is on a flat platform extending under the book.

The 14" high sculpture was designed by Theodor Suess Geisel's step-daughter Lark Dimond-Catesand and cast in bronze by Art Research & Technology. It is the south-most sculpture in the sculpture garden.

LOCATION:
Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden
Springfield Quadrangle
21 Edwards Street
Springfield, MA 01103

Tuesday, September 4, 2012

Sculptures of Springfield: The Storyteller


Interesting Places I've Photographed
The Storyteller 
Springfield, MA
Topic: Sculptures of Springfield



GPS: N42° 06.223; W072° 35.133

Quick Description: 

The Storyteller is the most unusual of the five sculptures that comprise the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden at the Quadrangle in Springfield.

Long Description:

The Storyteller is a bronze sculpture in the form of a ten foot high open book. The back of the sculpture is an exact replica of the cover of the Dr. Seuss classic children's story "Oh, The Places You'll Go". The cover design is accented in teal. On the front of the sculpture the entire text of "Oh, The Places You'll Go" is inscribed on two pages in large enough letters so it can be easily read. Dr. Seuss character Gertrude McFuzz is perched on the upper left corner of the book. The Grinch and his dog Max stand to the right side of the open book. Centered in front of the book is a large storyteller's chair.

The sculpture was designed by Theodor Seuss Geisel's step-daughter Lark Dimond-Cates and and cast in bronze by Art Research & Technology. It is placed in the plaza next to, and slightly north and west of, the The Dr. Seuss and The Cat In The Hat Sculpture.

LOCATION:

Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden
Springfield Quadrangle
21 Edwards Street
Springfield, MA 01103

Monday, September 3, 2012

Sculptures of Springfield: Yertl the Turtle Garden


Interesting Places I've Photographed
Yertl the Turtle Garden
Springfield, MA
Topic: Sculptures of Springfield


GPS: N42° 06.299; W072° 35.189

Quick Description: 

The Yertl Garden is in the northwest corner of the Quadrangle. It is set apart from the other four sculptures that comprise the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden in Springfield.

Long Description:

A well known Dr. Seuss character, Yertle the Turtle is king of the pond. He commands other turtles to stack themselves beneath him so that he can see farther and thus expand his kingdom. The stack collapses under its own weight, freeing all the turtles.

The moral is contained in the last stanza:

"And today the great Yertle, that Marvelous he,
Is King of the Mud. That is all he can see.
And the turtles, of course… all the turtles are free
As turtles and, maybe, all creatures should be."

Yertle the Turtle sits on top of a stack of seven fellow turtles. He stands high on his front legs with his head held up. In the lower portion of the stack the turtles are more compressed. The lowest turtle is pressed against the base, which suggests a rock protruding from water. The tall sculpture is set into a recessed irregular shaped stone pond lined with cobblestone. There is a boulder at the east end of the pond.

The sculpture was the creation of Theodor Seuss Geisel's step-daughter, Lark Dimond-Cates and cast in bronze at Valley Bronze, Inc. It is located in a separate section of the Quadrangle and is not visible from the other four sculptures.

LOCATION:
Springfield Quadrangle
21 Edwards Street
Springfield, MA 01103

Sunday, September 2, 2012

Sculptures of Springfield: Dr. Seuss And The Cat In The Hat


Interesting Places I've Photographed
Dr. Seuss And The Cat In The Hat
Springfield, MA
Topic: Sculptures of Springfield


GPS: N42° 06.222; W072° 35.132

Quick Description: 

This sculpture features Theodor Seuss Geisel (Dr. Seuss) and his most famous character, the Cat In The Hat.

Long Description:

Dr. Seuss and the Cat In The Hat is located in the center of the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden at the Quadrangle in Springfield. It is the most intricate of all the sculptures, displaying an amazing amount of detail.

A life-size figure of Theodor Seuss Geisel (Dr. Seuss) is wearing glasses and seated in a winged chair by a drawing table which has no right rear leg. His body is aligned with the desk and his face is slightly tilted to the right. His hands are clasped around his right knee and his right foot is resting on the edge of the table. To his left and behind him stands the Cat In The Hat with his right hand resting on an umbrella, his left hand touching the edge of his hat, and his long curved tail touching the ground.

The sculpture was designed by Theodor Seuss Geisel's step-daughter Lark Dimond-Cates and and cast in bronze by Art Research & Technology. It is placed next to and north of the Horton Court.

LOCATION:
Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden
Springfield Quadrangle
21 Edwards Street
Springfield, MA 01103

Saturday, September 1, 2012

Sculptures of Springfield: The Lorax


Interesting Places I've Photographed
Springfield, MA
The Lorax
Topic: Sculptures of Springfield 




GPS: N42° 06.247; W072° 35.161


Quick Description: 

The Lorax is the smallest of five sculptures at the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden in Springfield.

Long Description:

The Lorax is a children's story, published by Dr. Seuss (Theodor Seuss Geisel) in 1971, at the beginning of the environmental movement in America. It tells the story of the the danger to the eco-system by uncontrolled logging. The Lorax becomes the advocate for the trees.

The Lorax is standing on the stump of a tree, both arms are slightly raised and he is looking upward with a pleading expression. The Lorax's final message to those who would destroy forests - "Unless" - is inscribed on the stump.

The small sculpture stands apart in a wide empty circle opposite the Springfield Science Museum in the northeast corner of the Quadrangle. It was created by Theodor Seuss Geisel's step daughter, Lark Dimond-Cates, and cast in bronze at the Valley Bronze, Inc. It carries a 2002 copyright date. Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden was unveiled in 2004.


LOCATION:
Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden
Springfield Quadrangle
21 Edwards Street
Springfield, MA 01103