For over 50 years, a statue has stood proudly on display at Assiniboine Park in Winnipeg. Now, this iconic piece of art could potentially receive a historic designation.
The statue, titled “The Boy with the Boot,” was created by renowned sculptor Leo Mol and has been a beloved fixture in the park since its installation in 1966. It depicts a young boy sitting on a bench, holding a boot in his lap.
According to the Assiniboine Park Conservancy, the statue was originally commissioned by the City of Winnipeg to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Winnipeg Boys’ and Girls’ Clubs. It was later donated to the park by the clubs in 1966.
Now, the City of Winnipeg’s Historical Buildings and Resources Committee is considering granting the statue a historic designation. This would recognize the statue’s cultural and historical significance and ensure its preservation for future generations.
The committee will be reviewing the statue’s history and significance, as well as gathering input from the public, before making a final decision. If the designation is approved, the statue will join other designated historic sites and landmarks in the city.
Many Winnipeg residents have expressed their support for the statue’s potential designation, citing its importance as a symbol of the city’s history and community. The statue has also become a popular spot for photos and a beloved landmark for visitors to the park.
The decision on the statue’s historic designation is expected to be made in the coming months. In the meantime, visitors to Assiniboine Park can continue to admire and appreciate “The Boy with the Boot” as a cherished piece of Winnipeg’s cultural heritage.
