The statue situated in Connor Park at the junction of Front Street, Station Street and Pinnacle Street is now refurbished and was rededicated in a ceremony held Thursday July 18. The Rotary Club of Belleville originally gifted the beautiful Children of Hope sculpture to the City of Belleville in 2005 marking the celebration of Rotary International’s 100th anniversary.
The sculpture was created by the late local artist Michael Rutland and has been an inspirational piece of urban art greeting people into the Downtown District.
Over the past 19 years the statue suffered deterioration from rainwater and other detrimental elements and was in desperate need of repairs.
The city retained the services of two local companies to bring the statue back to its original condition – Research Castings International of Trenton did the amazing work of carefully recreating the sculpture with great attention to quality and detail. They are a world-famous company creating dinosaurs and whales and all manner of museum of natural history pieces for clients all over the globe. The other company, Eastern Renovations of Belleville, built the pedestal base out of materials that are not porous and which will withstand environmental deterioration.
Mayor Neil Ellis was on hand and commented on “the importance of service clubs in the community to lead efforts in such important community initiatives such as this.” John Smale, who commissioned the original sculpture and led the restoration commented, “I’m honored to be able to be part of this effort to restore this important work by Michael Rutland.” He added, “There were many challenges and barriers that had to be overcome in getting us here, but the effort gives something truly special back to our community.” Karen Baker, Rotary Club president commented, “I’m so proud to be part of the community and able to support initiatives like this that remind us of the joy and innocence in children.”
The Rotary Club of Belleville thanks the City of Belleville for their generosity and commitment in restoring this statue as it celebrates the joy and hope of children and youth in our community and around the world. Rotary is committed to making the world a safer and healthier place for all children so they can reach their full potential.