Burnside Fountain, Bronze fountain and statue in Worcester Common, Massachusetts, United States.
The Burnside Fountain is a fountain in Worcester Common, Massachusetts, made of a pink granite basin with a bronze figure on top. The statue shows a child sitting on the back of a sea turtle.
Harriet F. Burnside donated a sum of 5,000 dollars in 1905 in memory of her father Samuel Burnside to build this fountain. The city then commissioned an artist to design the installation, which was dedicated shortly afterward.
The sculpture showing a boy on a turtle has become an informal symbol of the city over time. Residents dress the figure in costumes during local festivals and holidays.
The fountain stands at the southeast corner of Worcester Common near City Hall and is easy to reach on foot. The surrounding area offers benches and lawns for resting.
The figure has inspired local music competitions and even craft beers named after it. Some visitors rub the turtle's nose hoping for good luck.
Location: Massachusetts
Creator: Henry Bacon
Made from material: bronze
GPS coordinates: 42.26150,-71.80020
Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:27
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