Statue Of Red Auerbach

Statue of Red Auerbach in Boston: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

In the heart of Boston, the Statue of Red Auerbach stands as a powerful tribute to one of basketball’s most influential figures and a symbol of the city’s rich sports heritage. Arnold “Red” Auerbach, legendary coach and executive of the Boston Celtics, is immortalized in bronze, seated on a bench with his iconic cigar. This sculpture invites fans, tourists, and history enthusiasts to engage directly with the legacy of a man who shaped the Celtics’ dynasty and advanced social progress in the NBA (Wikipedia: Statue of Red Auerbach).

Located at Faneuil Hall Marketplace—one of Boston’s most historic and vibrant public spaces—the statue is freely accessible year-round, requiring no tickets or admission fees. Its placement on the Freedom Trail ensures that visitors exploring Boston’s landmarks can easily connect with the city’s sporting and civic identity (New England & Beyond). This guide details the statue’s history, artistic features, visitor information, and its ongoing significance in Boston’s cultural landscape (NBC Sports Boston).

Origins and Commissioning of the Statue
Red Auerbach: Legacy and Impact
Artistic Features and Symbolism
Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Directions and Nearby Attractions
Guided Tours and Special Events
Photography Tips and Visitor Experience
Dedication and Public Reception
Historical Context and Civic Identity
Preservation and Ongoing Legacy
Community Significance
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visuals and Media Suggestions
Summary of Key Facts
Plan Your Visit

Origins and Commissioning of the Statue

The vision for the Statue of Red Auerbach emerged in the mid-1980s, as recognition of Auerbach’s unparalleled influence over Boston sports culture. Renowned sculptor Lloyd Lillie was selected to design the statue, capturing Auerbach’s approachable spirit and competitive drive. The statue was dedicated on September 20, 1985—Auerbach’s 68th birthday—marking both a personal and public celebration (Wikipedia: Statue of Red Auerbach; Only In Your State).

Red Auerbach: Legacy and Impact

Arnold “Red” Auerbach (1917–2006) revolutionized basketball as the Celtics’ head coach (1950–1966), winning nine NBA championships—including eight consecutive titles (1959–1966). As a general manager and team president, he guided the Celtics to further success, shaping one of sports’ most storied franchises (Wikipedia: Red Auerbach). Auerbach was also a social pioneer, drafting the first Black NBA player and hiring the league’s first Black head coach, Bill Russell (NBC Sports Boston; Ozzys Substack).

Artistic Features and Symbolism

The bronze statue, approximately five feet tall, depicts Auerbach seated on a bench, holding his trademark cigar—a symbol of victory and confidence. The interactive bench invites visitors to sit beside him, blurring the line between observer and participant (Wikipedia: Statue of Red Auerbach). The relaxed pose and open expression embody his leadership style and accessibility, while the bench’s design fosters a personal connection.

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Hours: The statue is outdoors, accessible 24/7. Faneuil Hall Marketplace typically operates 10:00 AM–9:00 PM, but the statue itself can be visited at any time.
Tickets: No admission or tickets are required.
Accessibility: The site is fully wheelchair accessible, with smooth walkways and ramps. Public restrooms are available in the marketplace (New England & Beyond).

Directions and Nearby Attractions

Location: Faneuil Hall Marketplace, 4 South Market Street, Boston, MA 02109.
Public Transit: Closest MBTA stops are Government Center (Blue/Green Line), State Street (Orange/Blue Line), and Haymarket (Orange/Green Line).
Parking: Several garages nearby, with reduced rates evenings/weekends; street parking is free on Sundays.
Nearby: Quincy Market, Freedom Trail, Old State House, Paul Revere’s House, Boston Harbor waterfront, and TD Garden (The Geographical Cure).

Guided Tours and Special Events

Although there are no dedicated tours for the statue, many Boston walking tours—especially those covering the Freedom Trail or sports history—include it as a highlight. Faneuil Hall frequently hosts events, and the statue becomes a gathering spot during Celtics celebrations and city festivals.

Photography Tips and Visitor Experience

Best Times: Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best lighting and fewer crowds.
Photo Tip: Sit beside Auerbach on the bench for a unique shot.
Night Visits: The statue is illuminated after dark, providing a different but equally striking ambiance.

Dedication and Public Reception

The statue’s 1985 dedication was attended by city officials, Celtics players, and fans, reflecting Auerbach’s deep connection to Boston. It quickly became a focal point for visitors and locals alike, widely featured in media and recognized by the Smithsonian’s “Save Outdoor Sculpture!” program in 1993 (Wikipedia: Statue of Red Auerbach).

Historical Context and Civic Identity

The statue’s installation paralleled a period of renewed civic pride in Boston, with the Celtics’ dominance under Auerbach cementing basketball as a pillar of the city’s identity. Its placement at Faneuil Hall connects Boston’s revolutionary past to its contemporary achievements in sports (Wikipedia: Statue of Red Auerbach).

Auerbach’s efforts to advance racial integration in the NBA further highlight his role as both a sports innovator and a force for social progress (Wikipedia: Red Auerbach).

Preservation and Ongoing Legacy

The statue is carefully maintained, reflecting Boston’s dedication to its public art. Auerbach’s legacy is also honored through the Celtics’ retired number 2 jersey and the Red Auerbach Center, the team’s state-of-the-art practice facility (Wikipedia: Red Auerbach). His signature adorns the parquet floor at TD Garden, ensuring his presence endures at the heart of Boston basketball.

Community Significance

The statue is more than a memorial—it is a living part of Boston’s urban life. Locals and tourists alike interact with the monument, which serves as a backdrop for celebrations, commemorations, and spontaneous gatherings. Its accessibility and interactive design make it a favorite among visitors, embodying the values of teamwork, perseverance, and innovation that Auerbach championed (Only In Your State).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: The statue is accessible 24/7, as it is outdoors.

Q: Is there an admission fee or tickets required?
A: No, visiting the statue is free and ticketless.

Q: How do I get there by public transportation?
A: Take the MBTA to Government Center, State Street, or Haymarket stations.

Q: Is the statue wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the site is fully accessible.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Many city walking tours include the statue as a stop.

Q: Can I take photos with the statue?
A: Yes, visitors are encouraged to sit on the bench for photos.

Visuals and Media Suggestions

High-quality image: “Statue of Red Auerbach outside Quincy Market in Boston.”
Visitor photo: Showcasing the interactive bench.
Map: Indicating the statue’s location within Faneuil Hall Marketplace.
Short video clips: Capturing the marketplace atmosphere and the statue.

Summary of Key Facts

Commissioned: 1985
Artist: Lloyd Lillie
Material: Bronze
Dimensions: Approx. 5 ft. x 6 ft. x 2 ft. 3 in.
Location: Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Boston, MA
Dedicated: September 20, 1985
Significance: Commemorates Red Auerbach’s role in Boston sports and social progress (Wikipedia: Statue of Red Auerbach)

Plan Your Visit

To fully experience Boston’s sports and civic heritage, include the Statue of Red Auerbach in your itinerary. Use public transit for convenience, explore nearby landmarks, and consider joining a guided tour for added context. For updates on special events and interactive maps, download the Audiala app, and follow us on social media for more tips and inspiration.