Existing comment:
Charles Linn
1814-1882
Charles Linn, one of Birmingham's founding fathers, was a sailor, wholesaler, banker, and industrialist. A native of Finland, Linn captained many transatlantic voyages before settling in Montgomery and embarking on a successful business career. In 1871 Linn came to Birmingham and established its first bank, The National Bank of Birmingham, and one of its first churches, later known as First Presbyterian Church. He also created Birmingham's first city park and launched iron and coal industries in the area.
The anchor in the sculpture symbolizes Linn's years at sea. His work in the iron and coal are represented by a pouring crucible and coal car. The Ionic column in the sculpture signifies Linn's leadership in the banking industry, and the tree within the column represents his visionary creation of a city park. His leadership, faith and resources were instrumental in Birmingham's emergence as the "Magic City."
Sculptor, Branko Medenica |