The "Victory" Preservation Project

The Framingham Historical Society and Museum is pleased to announce that Charlene Frary will lead the effort to conserve a second public artwork as Special Project Director for The "Victory" Preservation Project. "Victory" is a 1953 figurative sculpture, part of the Veterans Memorial located in Veterans Park next to the Courthouse on Route 126 in Framingham. The artist, Emilius Ciampa, is also known for his sculptures of Maurice Tobin on the Esplanade, the Veterans Memorial and Edward J. Cronin at the Mass State House, his bas relief of Arthur Fiedler, and several other well-appreciated works.

Installed on Memorial Day in 1953 in tribute to all Framingham veterans, "Victory" celebrates its 50th birthday in 2003, the Spring during which Frary hopes to complete conservation treatment of the sculpture as well as the 12 plaques presented on the granite base. Mrs. Frary has recent experience with outdoor sculpture conservation, having worked with PTGSC Troop 2112 and adult volunteers on the award-winning preservation project of Martin Milmore's 1872 Civil War Soldier, which stands fully conserved at the Edgell Memorial Library in Framingham Centre.

In conjunction with the Project, a public program will take place Sunday, February 2, 2003 at Nevins Hall in the Memorial Building. Save Outdoor Sculpture's national traveling exhibit entitled "Preserving Memory: America's Monumental Legacy" will be on view this day and throughout the month of February. Other planned activities for February 2nd include a talk by Town Historian Stephen Herring, Veterans Services Director Nick Paganella, Art Conservator Rika Smith McNally, and family members of Emilius Ciampa. The Waltham American Legion Band will provide a concert of Patriotic and nostalgic tunes. Refreshments will be served and the afternoon will conclude with children's art workshops. This public program and exhibit explore the importance monuments hold in preserving our culture. Admission to the event is free.

Victory's condition was professionally assessed earlier this year by Rika Smith McNally, thanks to an SOS! Assessment Grant awarded to the Town. The assessment indicates a need for full conservation treatment, which includes the removal of corrosion and repatination, in order to stabilize the surface of the sculpture and all 12 plaques. The sculpture's present condition is a result of acid rain exposure and lack of regular maintenance. The total cost of conservation is estimated just under $10,000.

Charlene Frary is pleased to report that full funding for conservation treatment and the related public program in February has been achieved, thanks to generous support from The Massachusetts Turnpike Authority Tourism Grant Program, the Lions Club, Norton Funeral Home, Perini Corp, Save Outdoor Sculpture and other private donors. If you would like to support The "Victory" Preservation Project in its effort to honor Framingham's monumental legacy, including a Rededication Celebration planned for "Victory" in May of 2003, please mail your tax deductible donation payable to The Framingham Historical Society & Museum, PO BOX 2032, Framingham, MA 01703-2032. In the memo section of your check, please note The "Victory" Preservation Project. For further information, contact Charlene Frary at 508-877-3556 or CFraryRltr@aol.com