City of Rockwall Dedicates Discovery Statue in Downtown Rockwall Square

Rockwall, Texas (April 14, 2023) – Yesterday, the City of Rockwall dedicated the Rockwall founders’ sculpture, Discovery Statue, located on the southeast corner of the Rockwall Historic Courthouse. The statue depicts pioneers, Benjamin Boydstun, Terry Utley Wade and William Clay Stevenson, discovering the rock wall, for which the city was later named, in 1852. Elected officials, community members, and business owners were present for the event with the Greater Rockwall Youth Symphony providing entertainment.Mayor Kevin Fowler welcomed the assembled crowd and spoke to the history of not only Rockwall but the sculpture project itself. Nineteen years in the making, this project developed through an appreciation not only for the community but for public art itself. Mayor Fowler expressed gratitude to former Mayor Bill Cecil who initiated that 1% of capital improvement projects would be set aside for public art. Today, we see this come to light not only in the Discovery Statue but also in the guitars across town representing Rockwall’s standing as Free Live Music capital of North Texas, and in the butterflies placed at local parks, marking the butterfly gardens and meadow of the Rockwall Butterfly Brigade.

Speaking on behalf of the Rockwall Historical Commission, Lorne Liechty, referenced the community’s rich history adding that “any great city is known for its commitment to art. This sculpture celebrates and tells future generations of our love for Rockwall, and that we value arts, history, and community.

Artist, Jim Bryant, who dedicated his time and talents as this project developed over the years received loud applause as he was introduced. Speaking on the evening of the dedication, Jim thanked his family and many Rockwall community members who supported him and the project and especially, “the Lord for giving me a talent I can share”.

The sculpture of the three founders in 150% scale also displays actual stones from the rock wall located on the Canup family property. Interestingly, it was shared that other stones from the rock wall are located on the façade of Providence Place Bridal and the Kitschy Cupboard in the downtown square. Many have walked past those stones for years without awareness of the history amongst them.Funding for the sculpture came from three sources, City of Rockwall hotel and motel taxes, Rockwall Alliance for the Arts, and private donations. In addition to Jim Bryant, many other organizations, individuals, and businesses were named as playing a key role in the project – Arts Commission, Alliance for the Arts, David and Patti Canup Family, Shaeffer Art Bronze Casting (foundry), Signature Signs, la terra studio and architect Michael Black, CHIEF Landscaping, Jack’s Masonry, Nema 3 Electric, B&B Contracting, Rockwall Historical Foundation, Rockwall Commissioners Court, and more.

BRN Staff Report

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