8-Pack 12x18 Cleveland Guardians of Traffic Statues Photo

Get this 8-pack of the Cleveland Guardians - a 12x18 poster photo print that can work with many spaces and frames. Many more options are available - everything from 5x7 versions of each statue to 2 1/2 foot wide and 5 feet tall photos. These photos were safely shot from the wide concrete railings below each statue. If you want one or an assortment at different sizes, please send an email to info@mikemurrayphotos.com Museum-quality posters made on thick matte paper. Add a wonderful accent to your room and office with these posters that are sure to brighten any environment. • Paper thickness: 10.3 mil • Paper weight: 189 g/m² • Opacity: 94% • ISO brightness: 104% • Paper is sourced from Japan

This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions! History of the Guardians Statues The eight statues on the Hope Memorial Bridge, officially named the Guardians of Traffic, were designed by sculptor Henry Hering and architect Frank Walker and installed in 1932. Each pair of statues faces each other on opposite ends of two pairs of pylons, creating a sense of guardianship over the bridge. Purpose: • Symbolism: The statues were meant to "typify the spirit of progress in transportation," according to Wilbur Watson, the bridge's engineer. • Representation: Each statue holds a different vehicle, representing the history of ground transportation at the time of construction: o Stagecoach o Covered wagon o Hay rack o 1930s-era automobile o Dump truck o Flatbed truck o Tanker truck o Bus Construction: • The statues are carved from Indiana limestone and stand over 12 feet tall. • Local stonemason William Henry "Harry" Hope is credited with helping carve the statues, leading to the bridge's informal name "Hope Memorial Bridge." Some sources claim the bridge honors other members of the Hope family or the comedian Bob Hope, but this is not confirmed. Connection to the Baseball Team • In 2022, the Cleveland Major League Baseball team changed its name from the "Indians" to the "Guardians," partly inspired by the statues on the Hope Memorial Bridge. • The team's new name and logo evoke themes of protection, leadership, and community, which resonate with the symbolism of the statues. Transportation Themes Represented The eight statues represent a wide range of transportation modes, showcasing the evolution of ground transportation technology at the time: • Early forms of transportation: Stagecoach, covered wagon, and hay rack represent the pioneering spirit and westward expansion in the United States. • Emerging technologies: The 1930s-era automobile symbolizes the growing popularity of personal transportation and the rise of the automobile industry. • Commercial transportation: The various trucks represent the increasing importance of trucking in delivering goods and materials. • Public transportation: The bus represents the role of public transportation in providing accessible and efficient transportation for everyone. These themes offer a glimpse into the transportation landscape of the early 20th century and highlight the significant changes and advancements made over time. The statues serve as a reminder of the vital role transportation plays in connecting people and communities. Get your photos and prints today.