High atop the Salt Lake City and County Building stand five majestic figures. They are not just decorative. Their story is one of resilience and renewal. This is the Sculpture Building a landmark with a captivating history.
In 1894 the building opened. Five zinc statues adorned its roof. These were Columbia Liberty Justice and two figures representing Commerce. They were inexpensive. They were ordered from a catalog. They were meant to mimic the building’s sandstone.
Time marched on. A 1934 earthquake damaged some statues. They were removed. The remaining Commerce statues suffered corrosion. They too were removed. For decades the building stood bare. A stark reminder of time’s relentless passage.
Then came the 1980s. A massive restoration project began. The building was strengthened. It got a seismic base isolation system a first for the nation. The project included recreating the statues.
Artist Richard Young was tasked with recreating Columbia. His initial design was rejected as too thin. His second design added bulk. It more closely resembled the original catalog model. Columbia is now cast bronze with a special finish.
Other artists were involved. Gordon Lewis Newby and Rudy Chagney recreated one Commerce statue. Angelo Caravaglia created the remaining three Liberty Justice and the second Commerce statue. These were made using hammered copper sheet. They feature a dark patina finish.
Today these statues stand proudly. They are symbols of Salt Lake City’s enduring spirit. They represent a time of renewal. They reflect the city’s commitment to preserving its history. They are a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship that went into their creation. Look closely. Notice the details. Let the statues tell their story of survival. Of rebirth. Of lasting legacy. The Sculpture Building is more than just a building. It is a living monument to a city’s perseverance.