Shakespeare in Central Park: A Monument to the Bard

Central Park, the green heart of New York City, is home to numerous sculptures, each with its own story. Among them stands a grand tribute to one of the greatest playwrights of all time—William Shakespeare. This bronze statue, mounted on a granite pedestal, was dedicated on April 23, 1864, marking the 300th anniversary of Shakespeare’s birth.

In 1864, a group of actors and theatre managers, including the renowned Shakespearean actor Edwin Booth, sought permission from Central Park’s Board of Commissioners to erect a statue in honor of the Bard. The chosen location was at the south end of the Mall, between two elms. However, due to the ongoing Civil War, the project was delayed. It was only in 1866 that a competition was held, and the sculptor John Quincy Adams Ward was selected to create the statue.

(For the benefit of beginners - 

The Mall in Central Park refers to a wide, straight pathway lined with large American elm trees. It is one of the park’s main promenades, designed for leisurely walks, and leads toward the Bethesda Terrace.

An elm is a type of tree that is commonly planted along streets and in parks due to its large, graceful canopy.

Shakespeare is often called "The Bard" or "The Bard of Avon" because of his exceptional literary contributions.)

Ward, later hailed as the “Dean of American Sculptors,” contributed nine sculptures to New York City’s parks. His work on the Shakespeare statue combined a classical pose with intricate details of Elizabethan dress, inspired by various portraits and busts of Shakespeare, particularly one from his birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon. The sculpture was cast in Philadelphia in 1870 by the Robert Wood & Co. Foundry. However, delays in procuring and cutting the granite pedestal in Scotland led to its unveiling on a temporary base in 1872.

(For the benefit of beginners -

Elizabethan dress refers to the clothing worn during the Elizabethan era (1558–1603), when Queen Elizabeth I ruled England. It is characterized by elaborate, richly decorated garments with features like ruffled collars, puffed sleeves, and embroidered fabrics.)

The statue portrays Shakespeare in a confident yet reflective stance. He is depicted wearing Elizabethan attire, including a doublet, short breeches, and a cloak draped over his left shoulder. His right hand is placed near his chest, holding the edge of his cloak, while his left hand rests on his hip. His facial expression is serious and contemplative, capturing the essence of a literary genius deeply engaged in thought. The intricate detailing in the folds of his clothing enhances the realism of the sculpture. His stance, with one foot slightly forward, suggests both movement and thoughtfulness. The granite pedestal bears an inscription from the Citizens of New York, dated April 23, 1864, acknowledging their dedication to preserving the legacy of the Bard. 

(For the benefit of beginners - 

Doublet: A close-fitting, buttoned jacket worn by men during the Elizabethan period.

Breeches: Knee-length trousers, often worn with stockings.

Cloak: A long, flowing outer garment, often draped over the shoulders.)

The Shakespeare statue is not the only connection the playwright has with Central Park. In 1890, Eugene Schieffelin released 80 starlings into the park because they were mentioned in Shakespeare’s plays—a population that has now grown to over 200 million across North America. Additionally, a Shakespeare Garden was first established in 1912 near West 79th Street and later relocated to the hillside between Belvedere Castle and the Swedish Cottage in 1934. This garden features plants referenced in Shakespeare’s works, adding another layer of literary homage to the park.

The Bard’s influence is further cemented in the park through the Delacorte Theater, which became the permanent home of Joseph Papp’s Shakespeare Festival in 1962. Since then, free Shakespeare performances have been a beloved tradition, bringing the playwright’s works to life for new generations.

Set against the backdrop of towering trees and New York’s ever-changing skyline, the sculpture serves as a reminder that the Bard’s words continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide. Whether you are a literature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a visitor enjoying the beauty of Central Park, Shakespeare’s presence in the park remains an enduring symbol of artistic brilliance.

Happy travelling.