Figurine
Object number2007.111.1
Manufacturer
Matthews International Corporation
(founded 1850)
Date2001
MediumBronze
Credit LineHeinz History Center Collection
Dimensions8.5 x 10.875 x 7.25 in. (21.6 x 27.6 x 18.4 cm)InscriptionsPlastic rectangular engraved gold plaque on the base of statue has text "WE WILL NEVER FORGET" / SEPTEMBER 11, 2001".
MarksEngraved label on back of stand, "[copyright symbol] Matthews International 2001".
Historical NotesStatuette of an original 6-foot statue created by Pittsburgh-based Matthews International Corporation, which was donated to the statue to the City of New York after the terror attacks of September 11, 2001. Originally created for the Firefighters Association of Missouri, the 6' x 6' statue featured a firefighter kneeling, overwhelmed with emotion. The statue was designed by Matthews International Corporation who custom manufactured it in their Parma, Italy, plant. It arrived at Kennedy Airport on September 9, 2001, and was detained there after the airport shut down because of the terrorist attacks two days later. Matthews decided then to donate the statue to New York City, promising Missouri another statue in due time. On September 17, as Matthews worked to release the statue from the airport, a photograph appeared in the New York Post featuring a firefighter in practically the same emotional position at Ground Zero. Once delivered into the city, the statue--along with two plaques created to accompany it--became a popular memorial for all who wanted to pay a tangible tribute to the victims of the attacks.
Related institution
Firefighters Association of Missouri
On View
Not on view
Jane Haskell
1895-1978
