What if I told you that this bronze pig is more than just a statue? This is Rachel the Piggy Bank. Rachel is the beloved mascot of Pike Place Market.
Dedicated in 1986 on the market’s 79th birthday, Rachel the Piggy Bank was designed by Georgia Gerber. Rachel was modeled after a real pig. This pig won the 1985 Island County prize.
Rachel the Piggy Bank isn’t just for show. She’s a working piggy bank. People donate to Rachel. The money funds the Market’s social services. In 2018, Rachel received about $20000 in donations.
The Smithsonian Institution describes Rachel the Piggy Bank as life-sized. She is a realistic figure of a sow. The sculpture measures approximately 36 by 66 by 16 inches. She weighs 550 pounds.
You might notice the bronze footprints. They lead right to Rachel the Piggy Bank. One plaque says that Fratelli’s Ice Cream made this piggy bank possible. Another plaque states that the money benefits local human service organizations.
In 2011, a taxi struck Rachel the Piggy Bank. She was knocked off her base. Rachel suffered cosmetic damage. She had a crack on her left ear. There was also a dent on her left side. Rachel was repaired at Gerber’s studio. She returned to Pike Place Market after a tour of Seattle.
Then Rachel the Piggy Bank was joined by a cousin. Her name is Billie. Billie was installed in July 2011. She is located at the Western Avenue entrance to the market.
Rachel the Piggy Bank is a Seattle landmark. She is a popular photo opportunity. Georgia Gerber also created Billie. Billie is a less refined replica of Rachel. They created fiberglass copies of Billie. Various artists decorated these pigs. They were displayed around Seattle as “Pigs on Parade”. They were auctioned off to support the Market Foundation. Billie was fitted with a collection box. She was installed in the lower Market area.
She has been through a lot in her 36 years. Rachel even withstood a taxi hitting her.
So next time you are here at Pike Place Market be sure to visit Rachel the Piggy Bank. She embodies Seattle’s spirit of generosity and community. Remember that every coin tossed into Rachel helps support those in need. Your small change can make a big difference.