Nestled near Conservatory Water in Central Park, the Hans Christian Andersen statue stands as a timeless tribute to the Danish author who enchanted the world with beloved fairy tales like The Little Mermaid, The Ugly Duckling, and The Emperor’s New Clothes. Since its dedication in 1956, this statue has been a beloved destination for visitors of all ages, and it continues to be a popular spot for families, especially during the park’s long-running storytelling program.
Discover the Hans Christian Andersen Statue
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| Hans Christian Andersen Statue, Central Park, New York |
The History of the Hans Christian Andersen Statue
The bronze statue of Hans Christian Andersen, created by American sculptor Georg John Lober, captures the essence of the author’s connection to children’s literature. Seated on a polished granite bench, Andersen is shown with a bronze duckling at his side, reading from his famous fairy tale The Ugly Duckling. The statue’s design invites children to climb onto Andersen’s lap, offering an interactive experience that resonates with young visitors and families.
The statue was commissioned to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Andersen’s birth, and the initiative was spearheaded by the Danish American Women’s Association. With additional donations from Danish and American schoolchildren, the funds were raised to complete the project. The monument was unveiled in 1956, and since then, it has been an enduring feature of Central Park, attracting thousands of visitors each year.
Storytelling Sessions at the Hans Christian Andersen Statue
Since 1957, the statue has played host to the Hans Christian Andersen Storytelling program, a cherished tradition that has delighted generations of New York City children. Every Saturday morning during the summer, professional storytellers gather around the statue to share Andersen’s fairy tales, along with folk stories from around the world.
The storytelling sessions take place from June through September and offer a magical experience for children, families, and visitors of all ages. For decades, the storytelling events have continued thanks to the Hans Christian Andersen Storytelling Center, which organizes the series. It’s one of the most iconic family-friendly activities in Central Park, offering a chance for children to be enchanted by timeless tales in the shadow of Andersen’s statue.
Notable Features of the Statue
- Location: The statue is located on a raised plaza near Conservatory Water, at East 74th Street and East Drive in Central Park.
- Sculptor: Georg John Lober, an American artist known for his work on public monuments, including the George M. Cohan statue in Duffy Square.
- Architect: Otto F. Langmann designed the statue’s granite bench, which is made from Stony Creek pink granite.
- Materials and Dimensions: The statue itself is crafted from bronze, standing at 9 feet 6 inches tall, while the bench measures 3 feet 3 inches in height. The accompanying bronze duckling stands at just under 2 feet tall.
The Legacy of Hans Christian Andersen in Central Park
The Hans Christian Andersen statue is one of the most family-friendly monuments in Central Park, especially with its proximity to Conservatory Water, where children and adults can rent miniature boats to sail in the pond. Nearby, the famous Alice in Wonderland statue adds to the whimsical atmosphere, creating a perfect destination for families exploring the park.
The bronze statue not only serves as a tribute to Andersen’s literary legacy but also as a symbol of the importance of storytelling in nurturing imagination and creativity in children. The statue’s interactive nature—inviting children to sit in Andersen’s lap or interact with the bronze duckling—makes it a particularly engaging attraction for young visitors.
Other Notable Monuments in Central Park
The Hans Christian Andersen statue is just one of many cultural landmarks in Central Park. As one of the world’s most famous public parks, Central Park is home to numerous statues and monuments dedicated to literary figures, philosophers, and historical personalities who have made significant contributions to global culture.
Visitors to Central Park can explore a wide range of monuments, from the Alice in Wonderland statue to the Shakespeare statue and the Bethesda Fountain. A self-guided tour of these iconic landmarks is a great way to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture celebrated throughout the park.
Accessibility and Family Activities
The area surrounding the Hans Christian Andersen statue is easily accessible, with mild terrain and just a few inclines. The storytelling program, in particular, draws families to the park on summer Saturdays, providing a memorable outdoor activity for children. The nearby Conservatory Water also offers additional attractions, such as renting miniature sailboats from the Kerbs Boat House, making this area of Central Park a lively and engaging spot for visitors.
Conclusion
The Hans Christian Andersen statue is a must-visit landmark for anyone exploring Central Park. Whether you’re a fan of Andersen’s timeless fairy tales or simply looking for a family-friendly activity in the park, this statue provides a perfect blend of history, culture, and storytelling magic. With its longstanding tradition of summer storytelling, the statue continues to bring the joy of fairy tales to new generations, making it a treasured part of New York City's cultural landscape.
