Hans Christian Anderson
Location: MAP | East Side at 74th Street
One of Central Park's most-climbed landmarks has been here since 1956.
The Hans Christian Andersen statue was erected in 1956 to commemorate the author's 150th birthday. This large, bronze statue depicts Andersen seated on a granite bench, reading from his book The Ugly Duckling.
Just like the neighboring and also highly popular statue, Alice in Wonderland, the statue is meant to be climbed on and is one of several popular attractions for kids at Conservatory Water.
Sculptor Georg John Lober created the piece as a tribute to the Danish poet, novelist, and children's author, with funding led by a large donation from the Danish American Women's Association.
Saturday Morning Storytelling Program
Each summer, storytellers gather at the foot of the statue on Saturday mornings for free storytelling, mixing Andersen's own fairy tales, such as The Little Mermaid and Thumbelina, with folktales from other countries.
The Hans Christian Andersen Storytelling Center runs the program in cooperation with NYC Parks and the Central Park Conservancy.
For this year's dates, schedule, and storyteller lineup, see Stories at the Hans Christian Andersen Statue.