Boy holding a white goose in Milwaukee outdoors

Boy With Goose

Boy With Goose Milwaukee: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction to the Boy With Goose Monument in Milwaukee

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is home to the Boy With Goose sculpture—a distinguished piece of public art that seamlessly blends classical inspiration with local heritage. This charming bronze statue, originally crafted by Italian-American sculptor Girolamo Piccoli in the early 20th century, depicts a young boy gently cradling a goose. It stands as a symbol of innocence, playfulness, and Milwaukee’s enduring commitment to public art and community spirit. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history buff, or a family seeking a memorable outing, the Boy With Goose offers a unique glimpse into Milwaukee’s artistic legacy and green spaces.

Rooted in Hellenistic motifs, the statue draws inspiration from ancient works by Boethus of Chalcedon, whose depictions of children and animals celebrated naturalism and everyday life. Milwaukee’s rendition honors this tradition while reflecting the city’s rich European immigrant history—making the statue a meaningful cultural touchstone. Today, you can visit the Boy With Goose year-round, free of charge, in welcoming parks such as Lake Park, Juneau Park, and Marshall Park. For current visiting details, accessibility info, and travel tips, visit the Milwaukee Parks website or the Visit Milwaukee guide.

Contents Overview

Introduction
Historical Origins and Artistic Creation
From Private Collection to Public Treasure
Artistic and Cultural Significance
Symbolism and Interpretations
Artistic Techniques and Aesthetic Qualities
Visiting Information
Tips for Visitors
Nearby Attractions and Activities
Events and Community Engagement
Restoration and Preservation
About the Artist: Girolamo Piccoli
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Plan Your Visit

Historical Origins and Artistic Creation

Commissioned in 1925 by Milwaukee resident Andrew A. McCabe for his home, the Boy With Goose statue was sculpted by Girolamo Piccoli. The artwork features a young boy modeled after Dominic Joseph Balestrieri—a local child who later became a Milwaukee firefighter—gently holding a goose. Originally, water playfully flowed from the goose’s beak, adding a fountain element to the piece. Standing just over three feet tall, the statue reflects both the classical themes of ancient sculpture and a personal connection to Milwaukee’s community.

Inspired by the Hellenistic “Boy Struggling with a Goose” motif attributed to Boethus of Chalcedon, Piccoli’s work exemplifies naturalism and emotional immediacy, linking ancient art to local Milwaukee narratives (Hellenica World).

From Private Collection to Public Treasure

Public enthusiasm for the statue led Milwaukee residents to raise funds for a second bronze casting, which was installed in Lake Park in 1927. Designed by renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, Lake Park’s picturesque setting—bluffs, ravines, and woodlands—offers an ideal home for the sculpture. Over the decades, the Boy With Goose has become a beloved gathering spot and a symbol of communal pride.

Artistic and Cultural Significance

Symbolism and Interpretations

The Boy With Goose motif carries layers of symbolic meaning:

Childhood Innocence: The naturalistic depiction of a boy and his feathered companion evokes universal themes of play and curiosity.
Classical Heritage: In ancient Greek art, geese were associated with Aphrodite and symbolized fertility, affection, and the bond between humans and animals.
Relatable Heroism: The playful struggle between child and goose echoes heroic tales, but with a touch of humor and accessibility (Ars Artis).

Artistic Techniques and Aesthetic Qualities

Piccoli’s bronze sculpture is celebrated for:

Naturalism: Lifelike anatomy and expressive movement, capturing the child’s determination and the goose’s lively posture.
Expressiveness: The emotional immediacy in facial features and body language is a hallmark of Hellenistic influence.
Engaging Composition: Intertwined forms and dynamic lines create a sense of motion and draw the viewer’s eye.

Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Locations:
- Lake Park: 3260 E. Newberry Blvd
- Juneau Park: 900 N Prospect Ave
- Marshall Park: Corner of Lyon and Marshall Streets
Visiting Hours: Parks are open daily from dawn to dusk (Lake Park and Juneau Park: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Marshall Park: dawn to dusk).
Admission/Tickets: Free, no tickets required.
Accessibility: All parks offer paved, wheelchair-accessible pathways to the statues. Benches and shaded areas are available.
Parking: Free parking lots and street parking near park entrances. Parks are accessible via public transit.

Lake Park History
Milwaukee Parks Official Site

Tips for Visitors

Best Times: Visit in spring or fall for vibrant foliage and pleasant weather.
Photography: Early morning or late afternoon offers the best natural light.
Guided Tours: Seasonal tours are available through Milwaukee Parks—check their website for schedules.
Family-Friendly: Parks are dog-friendly (leashes required) and offer picnic areas.
Nearby Attractions: Extend your visit with stops at the Milwaukee Art Museum, War Memorial Center, and the North Point Lighthouse.

Nearby Attractions and Activities

Lake Park: Olmsted-designed trails, North Point Lighthouse, golf, tennis, and panoramic lake views.
Milwaukee Art Museum: Iconic architecture and 30,000+ artworks (Visit Milwaukee).
Juneau Park: Historic monuments, gardens, and views of Lake Michigan (Destguides).
Milwaukee Public Museum: Immersive exhibits and the world’s largest dinosaur skull (Milwaukee Magazine).
Milwaukee County Zoo: Over 3,200 animals and engaging exhibits (Insider Fandom).
Mitchell Park Domes: Three unique botanical environments.
Other Notable Public Art: Leif Eriksson Statue, Solomon Juneau Monument, Abraham Lincoln Statue, Gertie the Duck, and The Fonz (GPSmyCity).

Events and Community Engagement

Milwaukee’s parks host a variety of community events including outdoor concerts, art fairs, and festivals such as Summerfest and PrideFest. The Boy With Goose sculpture often serves as a landmark during these gatherings. Check the Visit Milwaukee Events calendar for upcoming activities.

Restoration and Preservation

The Boy With Goose statue has been carefully maintained through city-led restoration projects and local stewardship initiatives. Removal and restoration efforts in the 1960s and recent decades have ensured its continued presence and vibrant patina, reflecting Milwaukee’s dedication to preserving public art for future generations.

About the Artist: Girolamo Piccoli

Girolamo Piccoli, an Italian-American sculptor, was known for blending classical European techniques with distinctly American themes. His sensitivity to childhood and naturalistic style is evident in the Boy With Goose, making it a standout in Milwaukee’s public art collection.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the visiting hours for the Boy With Goose statue?
A: Parks are open daily from dawn to dusk (typically 6:00 AM–11:00 PM for Lake and Juneau Parks; dawn to dusk for Marshall Park).

Q: Is there an admission fee or ticket required?
A: No, all three parks and statues are free and open to the public.

Q: Are the statues accessible for wheelchair users?
A: Yes, paved and accessible paths lead to each location.

Q: Can I bring my pet?
A: Yes. Leashed pets are welcome in the parks.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, check with Milwaukee Parks and local tourism organizations for schedules.

Plan Your Visit and Explore More

The Boy With Goose sculpture offers a timeless window into Milwaukee’s artistic heritage and community values. With free admission, accessible locations, and proximity to renowned cultural institutions, it’s a must-see for visitors and locals alike. Download the Audiala app for interactive maps, virtual tours, and up-to-date event information. Visit Visit Milwaukee for more travel inspiration, and follow us on social media for the latest updates.