The First Lady of Jazz (sculpture) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids The First Lady of Jazz |
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The statue in February 2019
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| Year | 1996 |
| Medium | Bronze |
| Subject | Ella Fitzgerald |
| Location | Yonkers, New York, U.S. |
The statue called The First Lady of Jazz honors the amazing singer Ella Fitzgerald. It stands outside the Yonkers Metro-North station in Yonkers, a city in Westchester County, New York, United States. This special statue was revealed in October 1996, just a few months after Ella Fitzgerald passed away at 79 years old.
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Honoring a Music Legend
This statue is a tribute to Ella Fitzgerald, who was known as "The First Lady of Jazz." She was one of the most famous and loved jazz singers of all time. The statue helps people remember her incredible talent and her connection to the city of Yonkers.
What the Statue Looks Like
The statue is made of bronze, a strong metal. It stands on a two-part base made of granite stone. The statue is about 5 feet 10 inches tall. This is a life-size representation of Ella Fitzgerald.
The statue shows Ella Fitzgerald singing. Her arms are open wide, and her fingers are snapping, as if she's performing. She is wearing a dress and heels. You can find the statue at Trolley Barn Plaza. This is at the corner of Buena Vista Avenue and Main Street in Yonkers.
Who Created the Statue
The artist who sculpted The First Lady of Jazz is Vinnie Bagwell. This was Vinnie Bagwell's very first public art project. It was a big step in her career. Since then, she has created nine sculptures in total.
The city of Yonkers asked Vinnie Bagwell to create this artwork. The project was funded by a special grant from the government. This grant provided $25,000 to help make the statue possible.
Ella Fitzgerald's Yonkers Roots
Ella Fitzgerald grew up right there in Yonkers. She went to Public School 18 and Benjamin Franklin Junior High School. Her family lived on School Street and Park Hill Avenue. The statue is a way to remember her early life in the city.
Part of a Special Trail
The statue of Ella Fitzgerald is also part of something called the Westchester County's African-American Heritage Trail. This trail highlights important places and people in African-American history within Westchester County.
