People In Ohio Are Quite Close To Getting The Statue Of King Gambrinus Restored – He Was The Saint Of Beer

Quite a few citizens of Ohio are enthusiastically rallying to get the statue of King Gambrinus restored. If the citizens succeed, the statue of King Gambrinus will royally watch over Market Square Park, in Ohio City.

The Market Garden Brewery duo Andy Tveekrem and Sam McNulty are behind a campaign that aims to raise money to restore a recently found statue of King Gambrinus, the unofficial patron saint of brewing, reported Ohio.

Speaking about their endeavor to attach strong cultural associations with the fine art of brewing, McNulty said, “It would become a touchstone for the neighborhood. When restored, the statue would include a plaque, a simple tribute to Cleveland’s brewing history – past, present and future.”

In its current state, the statue – composed of tin or galvanized metal – stands about 6 feet tall. The “king” has a low-slung sash, supposed to be a money-purse commonly found on royalty. The sash is quite visible on the king’s protruding gut, which undoubtedly is the result of merrily guzzling down pints of his favorite drink. Apart from proudly sporting the mid-section bulge, the bearded fellow is decked with some bling around his neck and a crown atop his head, reported Cleveland.

The statue was earlier housed at the old Leisy Brewery building in Cleveland, but the building closed down in the late 1950s. Though the statue had its very own recessed archway, time and nature haven’t been kind to it, and the statue does need some expert restoration. Fortunately, other than a few blemishes and tarnishes, the statute is in great condition.

The statue that the people of Ohio (mostly the breweries and a few beer aficionados) want restored currently sits outside a warehouse that belonged to the now defunct company. Mike Carano who works for Summit County-based Downing Exhibits, noticed the statue recently.

“I knew the history. It was a pretty old artifact. I noticed it was deteriorating sitting outside.”

Ironically, despite being historically and culturally appealing, Western Reserve Historical Society refused to take custody, but via contacts, Carano was put in touch with the guys at Market Garden Brewery, who displayed keen interest in placing the statue in a prominent place, namely the Market Square Park.

Fortunately for the people and the statue, the city is quite keen to explore any idea that could serve as a communal magnet for passersby, bus riders, and lunchtime crowds, said Cleveland City Councilman Joe Cimperman, whose ward covers the area where the statue would be situated.

However, the uncertainty over the internal structure of the statue — and the price to restore it — are perhaps the greatest concerns before King Gambrinus reigns over Market Square Park.

[Image Credit | Andy Tveekrem]