Johnny Kilbane Statue 10th Anniversary Battery Park Cleveland September 15, 2024
John "Johnny" Patrick Kilbane (April 9, 1889 – May 31, 1957) was a featherweight boxer who held the world featherweight title from 1912 to 1923, the longest period in the division's history. He was the second longest world title holder in boxing history, behind only Joe Louis.
Kilbane was born to John and Mary (Gallagher) Kilbane in Cleveland, Ohio on April 9th, 1889. His mother died when he was 3 years old and his father went blind when he was 6. He attended school until the sixth grade when he dropped out to help support his family.
On September 28, 2014, a large crowd congregated at Battery Park in Cleveland for the unveiling of a statue of Johnny Kilbane by world-class sculptor Rowan Gillespie.
Sculptor Rowan Gillespie with the Johnny Kilbane statue in 2024
10 years later on September 15, 2024 another crowd gathered to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the statue. Just like 10 years ago, Gerry Quinn entertained with music and noteworthy guests on Gerry's Irish Radio Show from 10-noon.
Other speakers who were there 10 years ago also gave remarks such as Kevin O'Toole who is the Great Grandson of Johnny Kilbane. He was the one who found some 1912 film footage of Johnny Kilbane in his grandmother's attic. His efforts to get the film restored led to the Johnny Kilbane project.
Kevin O'Toole
Matt Zone was Councilman for the ward 10 years ago but he returned for the anniversary.
Matt Zone
Terry Joyce, Business Manager of Building Laborers’ Union Local 310 also spoke.
Terry Joyce
Just like 10 years ago the sculptor, Rowan Gillespie, was on hand and also spoke.
Johnny Kilbane statue sculptor Rowan Gillespie
Tom Corrigan introduced Margaret Lynch, Executive Director of the Irish American Archives Society.
Tom Corrigan and Margaret Lynch
Margaret Lynch
Watch a video of all the speeches.
There was food and music from Half Craic'd on the Terrestrial Brewing patio.
Half Craic'd
Ladies from the LAOH (Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians) provided baked treats such as Irish soda bread and there were Irish flag kites for children (of all ages - see John Myers below) in the park.
John Myers flying a kite
And, of course, just like 10 years ago there were a lot of photos, like the following, with the statue.
Kevin O'Toole and Rowan Gillespie with the Johnny Kilbane statue
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Rowan Gillespie, Meg McGarry and Ray Daull
Shannon Corcoran, Gerry Quinn and Colleen Corrigan
If you get the chance, visit the statue which depicts Johnny Kilbane as a young boy, boxing champ and elder statesman.
