Burnside Fountain

In the heart of Worcester, Massachusetts, nestled within the historic Worcester Common, stands a charming yet enigmatic piece of public art that has captured the imagination and curiosity of locals and visitors alike for over a century. The Burnside Fountain, often affectionately referred to as Turtle Boy, is a unique and whimsical creation that combines the talents of renowned artists and the generosity of a local benefactor. This fountain, with its playful bronze statue of a boy riding a turtle, is not just a drinking fountain but a beloved symbol of the city’s heritage and spirit.

The Origins of Burnside Fountain

The story of the Burnside Fountain begins in the early 20th century with a generous bequest from Harriet F. Burnside, a prominent local philanthropist. Harriet, in memory of her father Samuel Burnside, a distinguished lawyer and judge in Worcester, left $5,000 in her will to the city to create a public drinking fountain. The fountain was intended to provide fresh water for people, horses, and dogs—a vital resource in an era when horse-drawn carriages were still a common sight on the streets of Worcester.

The task of designing the fountain was entrusted to Henry Bacon, an architect who would later gain fame for his work on the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. The sculptural component was initially assigned to Charles Y. Harvey, a talented artist who had previously worked on the Robert Gould Shaw Memorial in Boston. However, Harvey's work on the statue was tragically cut short when he took his own life, reportedly driven to despair by the voices he believed emanated from the unfinished sculpture. The project was then completed by Sherry Fry, another accomplished sculptor, who faithfully followed Harvey's original design.

A Closer Look at the Fountain

The Burnside Fountain is composed of two distinct parts: the granite basin and the bronze statue. The basin, made of pink granite, is rectangular in shape and features four large bowls on its upper surface, designed as drinking troughs for horses. A smaller, lower basin at the rear of the fountain was intended for dogs. This thoughtful design reflects the fountain's original purpose as a source of fresh water for all manner of city dwellers, both human and animal.

At the heart of the fountain, perched on a circular pedestal, is the bronze statue officially titled Boy with a Turtle. This delightful sculpture depicts a young boy, nude and with an expression of innocent joy, riding on the back of a turtle. The boy's hair appears to be tousled by the wind, adding a sense of movement and liveliness to the piece. The turtle, with its detailed shell and serene expression, seems to be in mid-stride, carrying its youthful rider on an imaginary journey.

The Legacy of Turtle Boy

Despite its whimsical appearance, the Burnside Fountain has not been without controversy and challenges. Its playful design has led to various interpretations, some of which are more risqué than others. Over the years, the statue has been the subject of local folklore, songs, and even a beer named in its honor. It has also been humorously compared to the famous Manneken Pis statue in Brussels, Belgium, earning it a place in the hearts of Worcester residents as an unofficial city mascot.

In its early years, the fountain was located in Central Square, but by 1969, it had been relocated to its current position in Worcester Common. This move was partly in response to the changing needs of the city and the decline in the use of horse-drawn carriages. The fountain has also faced its share of vandalism and theft. In 1970, the statue was stolen but was recovered and reinstalled two years later. Another attempted theft in 2004 left the statue dangling precariously from its pedestal, but it was quickly repaired and restored to its rightful place.

Preserving a Piece of History

As the Burnside Fountain approached its centennial in 2012, there was a renewed interest in preserving and restoring this beloved landmark. The fountain had suffered from years of wear and tear, with issues such as chipped stone, water system failures, and corrosion on the bronze surface becoming increasingly apparent. Despite the challenges, the city and local volunteers have made efforts to maintain the fountain, recognizing its importance as a piece of Worcester's cultural heritage.

In recent years, the Burnside Fountain has continued to be a focal point for community activities and celebrations. Local groups, such as the Turtle Boy Urban Gardeners, have taken on the task of keeping the area around the fountain clean and well-maintained. The fountain's enduring charm and the affection it inspires in the community are testaments to its unique place in Worcester's history.

In conclusion, the Burnside Fountain is more than just a functional piece of public infrastructure; it is a symbol of the city’s history, creativity, and resilience. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply someone looking for a quirky landmark to visit, the Burnside Fountain offers a delightful glimpse into the heart and soul of Worcester, Massachusetts. So, the next time you find yourself in Worcester Common, take a moment to appreciate this whimsical work of art and the stories it has to tell.