GREENFIELD — In 2016, Indiana celebrates it’s Bicentennial. To commemorate this auspicious event, all Indiana communities are encouraged to highlight something “Hoosier.” Since Greenfield is the birthplace of the “Hoosier Poet,” it is only proper to honor him. However, this year marks a double commemoration — not only is this the Bicentennial of the State of Indiana, but this also marks the Centennial of Riley’s death.
The Reading with Riley Statue will be a permanent reminder of this special year. A bronze likeness of Riley will be seated on a bench in front of the Riley Boyhood Home in Greenfield. Visitors will be able to sit next to the poet, and take a photo or two. It is a younger Riley — capturing the poet when he was at the height of his career. Noted Indiana Artist, Bill Wolfe, has been commissioned to do this statue. Wolfe is known for his other famous Hoosier statues: Larry Bird, Abraham Lincoln, and Col. H. Weir Cook.
By making a donation you will help secure a piece of artwork that will be a permanent remembrance and signature piece of Indiana’s Bicentennial year. Most importantly, your donation will perpetuate the memory of the great Hoosier Poet — James Whitcomb Riley.
Every donor who gives $100 or more will be permanently recognized by the Reading with Riley Statue Committee on the grounds of the Riley Boyhood Home and Museum. These special donors will receive a VIP invitation to a RECEPTION at the Riley Museum on the day of the statue’s unveiling and official dedication during the 2016 Riley Festival in October. All donors will receive an invitation to the unveiling and dedication event.
Online donations may be made at the Hancock County Community Foundation website at https://givehcgrowhc.org/reading-with-riley-statue
For questions and more information, please contact the James Whitcomb Riley Boyhood Home at 317-462-8539.