Dedicated on Father’s Day in 2016, the Donald E. Stephens Statue stands as a powerful tribute. It honors the man who shaped Rosemont for over five decades. Let’s delve into the story behind this iconic monument.
Donald E. Stephens was Rosemont’s first and only mayor until his death in 2007. He led the village for 51 years. The Donald E. Stephens Statue commemorates his significant role in creating the community.
Originally located outside Rosemont’s Village Hall on Devon Avenue, the Donald E. Stephens Statue now welcomes visitors inside the new Village Hall on Technology Boulevard. This move took place in May 2024. It coincides with the opening of the Rosemont History Museum and Innovation Center.
The eight-foot tall, 1,500-pound bronze statue is a sight to behold. Artists Omri Amrany and Julie Rotblatt Amrany from Timeless Creations crafted it. They also created the Michael Jordan statue outside the United Center and the Harry Caray statue outside Wrigley Field.
The Donald E. Stephens Statue depicts a kneeling Stephens. He towers over roses and iconic Rosemont buildings. Water gently trickles down over mosaic-tiled steps. This element reflects Stephens’ love for fountains and colorful plantings.
The statue captures Stephens facing west. His hands cup the village’s famed red and white rose water tower. Landmarks he developed since Rosemont’s founding in 1956 surround him. These include the Allstate Arena and the Rosemont Theater. Everything about the statue, from the shoes to the shirt pattern, is a replica of Stephens.
Tom Grusecki, who helped raise funds for the statue, recalled seeing it in its early stages. He was surprised it was initially made of clay. He said Stephens started with clay and brought it all together.
Brad Stephens, Donald’s son and current mayor, found it difficult to sum up his father in words. He believes the Donald E. Stephens Statue serves as a constant reminder of his father’s impact. He even joked that his father might get up and scold him.
The unveiling of the Donald E. Stephens Statue was part of Rosemont’s 60th-anniversary celebrations. The Rosemont Drum and Bugle Corps played patriotic songs. It was a fitting tribute to the man known as the father of Rosemont.
Now housed inside the Village Hall, the Donald E. Stephens Statue stands as a lasting symbol. It represents Stephens’ vision and dedication to Rosemont. It ensures his legacy lives on for future generations. The Donald E. Stephens Statue ensures that Stephens’ contributions are never forgotten.