Was that a splash? In the heart of Lincoln Park, the Eli Bates Fountain, also known as “Storks at Play,” captures the eye with its whimsical charm. This isn’t just any fountain. The Eli Bates Fountain is a testament to a man’s love for his city and art. Eli Bates, a successful Chicago lumber merchant, bequeathed funds in his will for both this fountain and the Standing Lincoln statue in Lincoln Park.
The fountain, sculpted in 1887, is the work of renowned artist Augustus Saint-Gaudens and his assistant, Frederick William MacMonnies. Look closely at the intricate details! Two bronze storks, wings outstretched as if taking flight, grace the fountain’s edge, water spouting playfully from their beaks. Three mischievous figures, half-boy and half-fish, seem to frolic in the spray, each struggling with an oversized fish. Rising from the center are newly recreated bronze reeds and cattails, adding a touch of natural elegance.
The fountain’s granite basin, designed by the famed architectural firm McKim, Mead, & White, adds a classical element to this delightful scene. It’s a testament to the artistry of a bygone era. The Eli Bates Fountain embodies a sense of playful grandeur that continues to delight visitors. A fusion of nature and artistry, it offers a moment of peaceful respite amidst the bustling city.