Historic Restoration
Cast Iron Fountain
The Henderson, KY Central Park “Rebecca” Fountain returned to its former location in Central Park after an extensive restoration by Robinson Iron in Alexander City, AL. The fountain was reinstalled just in time to serve as a backdrop for fall festivals and holiday pictures. Designed and fabricated 18 years ago, it is a replica of the original 1890 fountain that graced the historic park from 1892 to 1962.
The three-month restoration began with the tedious dismantling of each section of the fountain, carefully crating and shipping each piece back to Robinson Iron for cleaning and refurbishing. There was extensive damage to the cast iron from the chlorine in the water used in the fountain. The statue, fondly known as “Rebecca,” was so severely corroded it was near collapsing.
The 26-foot structure is adorned with several decorative pieces that depict joyful babies, a boy riding a dolphin and the main and largest fixture, “Rebecca.” Alternative methods to prevent the same corrosion from chemicals in the fountain’s water supply will mean a new and longer life for the fountain as it will continue to grant grace and beauty once again to Central Park. Robinson Iron was honored to again be a part of saving a great American historic icon. Luke Robinson stated, “This particular combination of castings is the only one of its kind. It’s a huge part of Henderson’s history, and we’re glad to be part of recreating it.”
About Robinson Iron
Restoration of historic landmarks, historic buildings, and other cultural resources of significance – these are the keys to preserving the beauty of our heritage and our public spaces. Robinson Iron is an established, highly qualified firm specializing in the restoration and preservation of historical cast iron, aluminum, and bronze, including cast metal facades, art pieces, and sculpted ornamentations adorning historic properties throughout the United States and beyond.
