Beneath the outstretched paw of a bronze bear lies a story of remembrance. The Alfred Lincoln Seligman Fountain stands here. It is located in Morningside Park at 114th Street and Morningside Avenue. We are at the foot of the stairway. It is due west of the statue of Lafayette and Washington.
Look closely at the Alfred Lincoln Seligman Fountain. See the bear sprawled on an overhang. He tries to reach the faun huddled below. Water trickles out by the faun’s left hand. A century of hands have polished the bronze here.
The Alfred Lincoln Seligman Fountain serves as a memorial. It honors Alfred Lincoln Seligman. He was the Vice-President of the National Highways Protective Association. Sadly, he died in 1912 in an early automobile accident. This tragic event led to the creation of this charming sculpture.
Edgar Walter created this seven-foot sculpture. It was cast at the Roman Bronze Works. The Alfred Lincoln Seligman Fountain is both functional and enchanting. A young faun rests in a grotto with his panpipes. An inquisitive bear peeks over the rim at him.
Originally, the fountain served a practical purpose. It included a drinking fountain for humans. It also had a basin for thirsty dogs. Imagine children and their furry friends gathering here long ago. They refreshed themselves on a hot summer day.
The New York Times reported the dedication on May 17, 1914. Frederick R. Coudert presented the Alfred Lincoln Seligman Fountain to the Parks Commissioner. He said that Seligman devoted his time to the young people of the city. This monument is appropriate because of his work for their safety, health, and happiness.
This story has a cruel twist. Seligman was killed in one of the first documented automobile accidents. This happened on June 24, 1912. The National Highways Protective Society donated additional funds to the project. It cost 2000 dollars.
After sixty years, the Alfred Lincoln Seligman Fountain was restored in 1997. The City Parks Foundation Monuments Conservation Program did the work. They received financial aid from the Florence Gould Foundation.
The Alfred Lincoln Seligman Fountain is known as the Bear and Faun. It is one of the most enchanting outdoor sculptures in the city. Its tender image may depict a mythological scene. Or it could be something Edgar Walter created himself. Either way, it’s sweet and magical.
Take a moment to appreciate the Alfred Lincoln Seligman Fountain. It represents art, history, and remembrance. Consider the lives it has touched. Also think of the stories it could tell.