Woodruff Park facts for kids
Woodruff Park is a lively public park right in the middle of Downtown Atlanta, Georgia. It's named after Robert W. Woodruff, who was a very important leader of The Coca-Cola Company. This park covers about 6 acres (2.4 hectares) and is a popular spot for people to relax and have fun. You can find a beautiful fountain, a stage for performances called a pavilion, and several interesting monuments here.
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Park History: How Woodruff Park Began
This park has an interesting past! The first part of the park, which was about 4 acres (1.6 hectares), was bought in secret by Mr. Robert W. Woodruff. He then gave it to the city of Atlanta in 1971. The park first opened in 1973 and was called Central City Park.
Later, in 1985, it was officially announced that Robert W. Woodruff had given the money for the park. So, the park was renamed in his honor. In 1995, just before Atlanta hosted the Centennial Olympic Games, a special monument called the International Peace Fountain was built in the park. Woodruff Park has also been a place where many people gather for demonstrations and rallies to share their ideas.
The Phoenix Statue: A Symbol of Atlanta
What the Phoenix Statue Shows
One of the most famous artworks in Woodruff Park is a bronze sculpture called Atlanta from the Ashes (The Phoenix). This amazing statue shows a woman letting go of a phoenix. A phoenix is a mythical bird that rises from ashes, and it's a strong symbol for Atlanta.
Why the Phoenix is Important to Atlanta
The phoenix represents how Atlanta was able to rebuild and grow after a difficult time. During the Civil War, the city was largely burned down by General William T. Sherman's army. The phoenix shows Atlanta's spirit of rising up and becoming strong again, just like the mythical bird.
History of the Phoenix Sculpture
The Atlanta from the Ashes (The Phoenix) sculpture was a gift from the Rich Foundation. It was given to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Rich's Department Store, a famous store in Atlanta. The sculpture was designed by James Seigler and created by Gamba Quirino in 1969. It was first placed near the original Rich's Department Store. Then, in 1995, the sculpture was carefully moved and restored. Now, it stands proudly in Woodruff Park for everyone to see.
- Map: 33°45′18″N 84°23′20″W / 33.75500°N 84.38889°W
