Searching for all things related to Abraham Lincoln this morning on the web (while I should be working...can you tell I'm bored?), I stumbled upon this adorable life-sized fiberglass bear made to look like Old Abe himself. Intrigued and laughing out loud, I had to research this bear a little further.
This Lincoln bear is located in the small city of Boyertown, Pennsylvania (in Berks County, in the Reading area). The local high school team is the Bears. A few years ago, some folks in the town started "Bear Fever," a collaborative public arts project. The goal of the effort is to decorate the town and surrounding communities with 40-60 fiberglass bears as a way to develop school and town spirit. Local businesses in town "sponsor" a bear, all of which are uniquely designed and painted. The townspeople got the idea after learning about other cities in the U.S. decorating with cows (Chicago) and pandas (Washington, D.C.)
Abe-Bear-Ham (as he's affectionately called) has a top hat, a beard, and a coat resembling the frock that Lincoln wore. Note the "5 dollar bills" serving as a hat band. Too cute. The story of the Lincoln bear, additional photos, and an interview with the artist may be found here.
The real Lincoln had to "bear" much in his life, so what better animal to represent him?
Hi Geoff, I just happened to see your website and thought you might be interested in our Abraham Lincoln 3D imagery. Here is the link to our website: http://abrahamlincolnpictures.blogspot.com/
ReplyDeleteThanks and keep up the good work. Best, Maria.
You should also know that the bear is in front of the old Lincoln Elementary School, which is, I'm assuming, named in honor of him (he was born in 1809, the building was built in 1909). The building now serves as beautiful office space... I'm actually typing from inside right now!
ReplyDeleteThere are also several vintage prints of his image hung on the walls inside.
Thanks for letting me know, Beth. Sounds like a fun place to be...surrounded by images of Lincoln.
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