South Main Plaza Dog Fountain in Mount Vernon, Ohio
At the heart of South Main Plaza in Mt. Vernon sits an unexpected menagerie: a fountain crowded with painted cast-aluminum dogs, watched over by a cat, a pony, two pairs of birds, and, inexplicably, an apple. At the very center sits a golden bone, and the cat, smart enough to know better, keeps itself perched safely out of the spray. It all started when Gambier resident Phil Samuell saw photos…
In the bustling heart of South Main Plaza in Mount Vernon, Ohio, a whimsical fountain captures the attention of all who pass by. This unusual attraction features a cluster of painted cast-aluminum dogs, a cat, a pony, and various pairs of birds, all sharing a lively splash of water around a golden bone in the center. The fountain's most captivating element, however, is the inclusion of an apple, which adds an unexpected touch to the ensemble.
The fountain's creator, Phil Samuell, a resident of nearby Gambier, first encountered a similar fountain during a visit to Toronto's Berczy Park. Designed by landscape architect Claude Cormier, the Toronto fountain inspired Samuell and his family to bring a similar creation to Mount Vernon. The fountain's playful design, featuring a myriad of animals set amidst a splash of water, has become a beloved gathering spot for locals and visitors alike, drawing people in to marvel at the clever juxtaposition of creatures and enjoy the light-hearted atmosphere it creates.
Written by urgent.news from Atlas Obscura's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
