The subject for the third edition of the print collection, “A Sense of Place” seems more than a little appropriate, given its presence as the centerpiece of St. James Court.

The Victorian period fountain has had a remarkable history since its installment in the late 1800s. Originally composed of cast iron and zinc, the elements had taken their toll on this imposing monument.

In the mid 1950s, after years and years of repairs to the fountain by the St. James Court Association, including painting, rust removal, the addition of steel support columns around the bowl and a seemingly endless flow of dollars toward its salvation… all these measures, to stem the tide of its demise, proved fruitless. The fountain was crumbling, bit by bit, into the pool basin.

Malcolm Bird, a former President of the Association, suggested that a complete restoration of the fountain would soon be necessary and helped establish a fund specifically for this project. With consultation from preservation groups, artists, sculptors, and foundries throughout the nation, the consensus was unanimous: the fountain needed a total recasting in bronze, to assure its permanent place in history. And time was of the essence since molds would need to be made of the intricate figures while there was still enough detail to make exact duplicates.

Unfortunately, the Association did not have the resources for the entire project, but with the assistance of several property owners, who acted as Guarantors, the Association secured the finances. The fountain was missing from its center court location for three years, while its makeover progressed. The casting was performed by Fine Arts Sculpture Centre of Clarkston, Michigan.

On the beautiful afternoon of September 14, 1975, residents, former residents, preservationists, local and national officials, friends, and neighbors gathered for the unveiling of the recasting during a reception and dedication ceremony.

The Association dedicated the fountain to: “The principal of preservation, specifically, to the preservation of this historic landmark, a symbol of the elegant Victorian era that was entrusted to our care. Thereby, we hope to set an example that will inspire future generations to cherish, love and care for their heritage.” *

I remember having attended the unveiling and it was a thrill I shall long remember.

So, this success story of historic preservation is depicted in this year’s print. The three paintings in the lower portion of the composition, tell the story described above. The central painting of one of the cherubic figures on the fountain captures the essence of historic preservation: guardians of our past, which is preserved for our future.

This story of neighbors coming together for a common purpose remains one of the most inspiring messages for our times…and is so very rewarding for anyone who stands in front of this glorious centerpiece of this glorious neighborhood.

~ Mark D. Bird

*”A Walking Tour and Cooking Guide of Saint James Court”, published by The St. James Court Association, Louisville, KY, 1976