Behold Myrtle the Turtle a magnificent bronze sculpture. She rests in Beacon Hill’s Myrtle Street Playground. This isn’t just any turtle. This is a four-foot-long Kemp’s Ridley turtle. It’s a testament to the artistry of Nancy Schön. She’s also the genius behind the beloved Make Way for Ducklings statues.
Myrtle’s creation was commissioned by the Beacon Hill Garden Club. They unveiled her as part of their 90th-anniversary celebrations. The playground received a makeover too. New flowers fences and repainted gas lamps surround Myrtle.
This isn’t just a static display. Myrtle is meant to be interacted with. Children climb on her. They smooth her shell. Schön loves this. She designed her other sculptures this way. The tortoise and hare in Copley Square show similar wear. Years of children playing on them created a smooth patina.
Myrtle’s name is a tribute. It honors the New England Aquarium’s famous green sea turtle. That Myrtle has been a beloved resident for almost 50 years. Interestingly the sculpture itself is a Kemp’s Ridley. This is the most endangered turtle species worldwide. The artist mistakenly identified the aquarium turtle’s species in earlier reports.
The Turtle Mural is more than just a statue. It’s a symbol of Boston’s rich artistic heritage. It’s a place where children laugh and play. It represents the enduring legacy of Nancy Schön. Her work brightens our city. She continues to bring joy through her public art. The dragon in Dorchester the butterflies on Francis Street and even Winnie the Pooh in Newton all demonstrate this.
So take a moment. Appreciate Myrtle the Turtle. She’s a reminder that even the smallest creatures can have a big impact. They inspire awe and leave a lasting impression. Her presence adds to the charm of Beacon Hill. She is a beloved piece of Boston’s public art.