Behold Peter the Fisherman a bronze giant overlooking Fordham University. This isn’t just any statue. It’s a story etched in metal.
Created by Frederick Shrady in 1965 this impressive sculpture stands approximately 15 feet tall and 28 feet long. It depicts St Peter the apostle a fisherman before his calling. The outstretched arm casts a 14-foot net a testament to Peter’s former life. The detail is remarkable. Even the founder’s mark Fonderia Battaglia is visible.
Originally installed in 1970 near Fordham’s art studios Peter stood within a reflecting pool. A beautiful setting. A dedication to Robert Moses himself. But time marches on. In 2009 the statue was removed. The university needed space for new buildings. The sculpture was disassembled and put into storage.
Three pieces the net the body and the base were carefully stored away. Think of it a bronze giant sleeping. Then in 2014 Peter was reborn. Reinstalled on a new plaza near Fordham Law School. This wasn’t a simple process. Experts worked carefully restoring and remounting this massive piece. The result a magnificent bronze figure once more casting its net.
Today Peter stands a symbol of faith perseverance and the enduring legacy of Fordham University itself. A powerful image based on Matthew 4:18-20 where Christ called Peter to follow him. Peter the Fisherman isn’t merely art. It is a testament to history faith and renewal. A story of restoration both for the statue and the spirit.