MOUNT VERNON — After a six-week absence, the cast-iron fountain of Mount Vernon’s Public Square was returned to its home Tuesday afternoon.
The city’s public buildings and lands department worked along side Robinson Iron Corp. and Modern Builders to restore the landmark to its rightful place at the southeast corner.
“We weren’t expecting it until the spring,” said Geoff Oliver, public buildings and lands department superintendent. “We were surprised to have it back so soon.”
With its height of 13 feet and weight of approximately 1,500 pounds, the fountain arrived in three pieces and its swans lay wrapped in plastic. A crane from Modern Builders was used to stack each piece in place. After several hours of work each piece was secured and readied. The fountain isn’t expected for use until spring of next year.
This recent refurbishment stands as its first since 1991.
“It was painted to look more like an antique,” said Oliver, but over time exposure to the weather, the color will fade to a tarnished green.
