Educators ask for donations to bring Lady Liberty to Yuma

The Freedom Library has commissioned a world-renowned sculptor to create a replica of the iconic symbol

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) When you think of just what images depict patriotism you can't help but think of the American flag, the White House and the Statue of Liberty.

It's for that very reason that Howard Blitz the founder of Yuma's Freedom Library has been searching for a way to bring that iconic symbol to the Desert Southwest.

During a trip to Eugene, Oregon he visited the gallery of world-renowned sculptor Jud Turner. Turner has been recognized for his use of metals, turning scrap into works of art.

At that moment Blitz was inspired and approached the Freedom Library board. They then had to ask the property owner, who also became excited at the very notion of having a replica of Lady Liberty on their property.

The original Statue of Liberty towers over Liberty Island in New York at just over 300-feet. Yuma's replica will be just over 9-feet tall and stand over the front of the Freedom Library on Arizona Avenue.

The original statue is made of copper, the replica will be made of metal and tinned with copper. Just like the original the replica will be lit during the evening and her torch will also light up.

According to Blitx the replica will be close to the original which was given to the United States as a centinnial gift in 1876. But, he says when visitors look closer they will see pieces of history connected together to make this Lady Liberty.

In order to make this dream a reality, the Freedom Library needs to raise $15,000. So, they're reaching out to the community.

Once Turner is commissioned, Blitz is optimistic it will be completed by September 17, 2021, which is Constitution Day.

Checks should be made out to The Freedom Library and can be mailed to The Freedom Library C/O The Yuma Sun 2055 S. Arizona Avenue 85365.