“In the fall of 1903, industry in Birmingham was in full bloom. The opportunity to advertise Birmingham to the nation and the world with an exhibit at the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair presented itself, eventually taking the form of a sculpture of iron, the largest in the world.”* From these circumstances, Vulcan was formed, literally, by Italian sculptor Giuseppe Moretti, and figuratively, as emblematic of a youthful Birmingham’s industrial prowess. After winning a grand prize and attracting the attention of international press, Vulcan returned home. During the ensuing decades, Vulcan’s place in the city continued to evolve, physically and psychologically. The statue has been the subject of both pride and derision, and has experienced restoration and neglect, before coming to occupy its present status and location on Red Mountain. Vulcan and His Times traces the landmark’s history in lively detail, through the use of period news coverage and photography, from its inspiration and artistic execution, to more recent emphasis on the preservation of this unique landmark.

*Marjorie L. White

This book is shelved in the Alabama Room and is for library use only.

All photos in this post are reproduced with the express consent of the Birmingham Historical Society and the Birmingham, Ala. Public Library Archives.