The Culbertson Fountain is located in the center of downtown Paris. The fountain was built between 1924-1927 and was named after philanthropist John James Culbertson.
Located in the heart of our downtown, the fountain was a gift to the city by Paris businessman and philanthropist J. J. Culbertson, this Italian marble fountain was meant to commemorate the city’s rebirth after the 1916 fire that destroyed most of the city. Designed by St. Louis architect J. L. Wees, it is said that it was inspired by fountains the Culbertson family had seen while in Italy. The fountain took three years to assemble (1924-1927).
History
John James Culbertson held a large role in the development of Paris. He originally came to Paris and helped build the first cotton mill for the city. He was a huge aid to the town, but did move to Arkansas due to his work. He stayed in Arkansas as the manager of an oil company until 1891, when he decided to return to Paris. During this time he founded a company, and became very active in the community. When the fire of 1916 occurred, he helped rebuild the city after being entirely destroyed. The fountain was used almost to commemorate the rebuilding of the city.
While on a family trip to Italy, John James Culbertson came across fountains. When he returned to Paris he met with an architect named J.L. Wees. It took J.L. Wees roughly three years to construct the fountain. The fountain consists of a small bowl as the base supported by pillars connecting the bowl to the ground. One large pillar is inside the base and supports a smaller bowl that holds a statue of Triton. The fountain is surrounded by stone used to catch the water, and then placed on top of a stone platform with stairs to access the monument. John James Culbertson’s name is engraved onto the front of the fountain as well. A description of the fountain and background history can be found on a large black sign right in front of the monument.
The fountain serves as a gift from the Culbertson family and is still just as beautiful as when it was designed. It is made from Italian marble which was inspired by John James Culbertson’s trip to Italy.
The Culbertson Fountain is definitely a stop to be added to the itinerary. The fountain allows for visitors to get a good deep dive into the local culture and significant history.
